Post Hysterectomy Skeletal and Anatomical Changes

I wonder if so many women would “choose” hysterectomy if they knew how it would affect their figure and internal anatomy. I know I would have told my once respected gynecologist “no way” and left never to return if I’d known just a smidgen of what I now know. Here are some of the anatomical and skeletal changes that occur post hysterectomy.

Ligament and Skeletal Changes Post Hysterectomy

An intact woman’s figure has space between the rib cage and the hip bones commonly known as the waist. The waist gives her the curve in her lower back, the natural sway in her hips, her “elongated” torso that’s proportionate to her extremities. This all changes after hysterectomy.

Four sets of ligaments hold the uterus in place. These ligaments are the “scaffolding” or support structures for the core (midsection). When the ligaments are severed to remove the uterus, the spine compresses causing the rib cage to gradually fall toward the hip bones and the hip bones to widen. This causes a shortened, thickened midsection, protruding belly, and loss of the curve in the lower back, giving the appearance of a flat derriere. In some women, these changes cause those hated rolls of fat (weight gain or not). In others, it looks more like a pregnant belly. This can be particularly distressing for women whose hysterectomies denied them the chance to have (more) children.

As if an unattractive figure isn’t devastating enough, these skeletal changes lead to chronic back, hip, and rib cage pain as well as tingling and loss of sensation in legs and feet. It also explains why, even absent osteoporosis, hysterectomized women lose height. With all these changes to the skeletal structure, I wonder if hysterectomy can also cause spinal stenosis. It would certainly seem plausible.

Evidence of my spine compressing started 12 to 18 months post-op. A crease started forming about two inches above my navel. It gradually lengthened over the next 6 months to a year until it became visible all across my midsection. I’ve always been thin (underweight) with flat, toned abs and prominent hip bones. And contrary to what most women experience after hysterectomy, I lost weight. As my spine compressed, my flat abs became “fat” and flabby. My hip bones became less prominent in the front (as my belly pooched out) and more prominent in the back since my rib cage had fallen onto my hip bones. And I now have intermittent back, hip, and rib cage pain as well as tingling in feet. My sacrum / tailbone has also looked bruised since not long after my hysterectomy.

Internal Organs Post Hysterectomy

And how does the body change on the inside? Well for one, it affects the bladder and bowel. The uterus separates the bladder and bowel and holds them in their rightful positions. Removal of the uterus causes these organs to fall impeding function. When the bladder or bowel is full, there can be a feeling of discomfort or even outright pain (exactly what I’m feeling at this moment – constant pain that increases by just walking). Complete emptying can be problematic as can incontinence. Bowels may alternate between constipation and diarrhea. Adhesions can further hamper bowel function even to the point of a life threatening obstruction. I’ve had serious bowel problems ever since my surgery 7 years ago. Chances of bladder, bowel, and vaginal prolapse and fistula also increase leading to more loss of quality of life and future risky surgeries. Hysterectomy has even been shown to increase risk of renal cell (kidney) cancer likely caused by damage to ureters. I have to wonder if functions of other organs may also be affected as our organs don’t work in isolation and may be further affected by the anatomical changes.

Nerves and Sex Post Hysterectomy

And what about sensation after all those nerves and blood vessels are severed? What’s it like having a shortened vagina that’s not connected to anything? Well, it’s no wonder sex isn’t the same! How can it be? And if you enjoyed uterine orgasms, those are obviously a pleasure of the past. Even nipple sensation can be lost because nerve endings are found all along the spine. The severing of nerves as well as scar tissue formation can cause a problem worse than loss of sensation – nerve entrapment which can be quite painful.

I’m not sure which is worse – the hormonal adverse effects or the anatomical and skeletal adverse effects. There’s no doubt though that my body has been drastically altered since the unwarranted removal of my vital female organs.

The adverse effects to a woman’s figure, as well as the many other adverse effects of female organ removal, are detailed in the video “Female Anatomy: the Functions of the Female Organs.” Priceless!

WS has a passion for educating women (and men) about the overuse and harm caused by gynecologic procedures. She also wants to raise awareness that health care has evolved from being patient centered to being profit and quota driven. This paradigm shift is responsible for excessive unnecessary testing and over-treatment which is not only costly but can cause more harm than good.

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551 Comments

Good information but don’t let it scare you if a hysterectomy is necessary. There are good reasons for them. Tumors can become cancer and I’d rather be alive and have some body changes. Just being straightforward.

Laura – Yes, some hysterectomies are necessary but about 90% of them are not. Unfortunately, many gynecologists use cancer scare tactics and other unethical tactics to railroad women into hysterectomies. Fibroids are benign growths. According to Dr. William Parker (author of “A Gynecologist’s Second Opinion”), fibroids do not become cancerous. There are, however, cancers of the uterine muscle called sarcomas, such as leiomyosarcoma. Dr. Parker explains it here – http://www.fibroidsecondopinion.com/fibroids-and-cancer/.

Oophorectomy (ovary removal) surgeries are rarely necessary either. A woman’s lifetime risk of ovarian cancer is 1.3%. There are ~22,000 new ovarian cancer cases every year in the U.S. yet there are ~500,000 oophorectomies, many of which involve removal of both ovaries for no reason or benign conditions such as ovarian cysts which are common and rarely necessitate removal of the ovary and oftentimes no surgery at all. These should be excised from the ovary (cystectomy) allowing women to keep their ovary(ies) and their many lifelong health promoting / endocrine functions.

2 months ago I made the startling discovery of my uterus dropping through my vagina. ! My Gynae gave me a pessary to wear as an alternative to a hysterectomy. It was the most uncomfortable painful experience. I walked with for 3 weeks, trying to teach in front of the class with high school students, being aware of the lower backpain, very sore vagina and the darn uterus falling trough the pessary. If I dare to bend or have a bowel movement the pessary would slip to the front. Then I could hardly walk!.
I discovered a very knowledgeable, experienced uro-gyneacologist, hoping that he could just lift my uterus. However he suggested full hysterectomy, leaving my one ovary (other one is gone already). He discovered during the operation that my bladder and rectum was also prolapsed . He did reconstructive surgery using , sacropolpexy etc. Yes, that was not my plan for my life to have a hysterectomy, but it happened. It is now 8 weeks after the operation and I walk again like a normal person in the malls and in my neighbourhood, without this big lump hanging between my legs.
I did have quite severe backpain after the operation but the chiropractor got my alignment back again and it is my plan to go to Pilatus classes. Also ladies, please do yourself a favour and read: Feeling young and sexy with bio-identical hormones by Dr Jonothan Wright. It is an eye opener! There are doctors that follow this route and I will certainly not go any other way when it comes to hormone replacement!
In the last 4 months I also experienced depression, severe anxiety, heart palputations, severe tiredness etc. However those issues were because of magnesium , iron and Vitamin D deficiency. Luckily I followed my own head on these issues and did not take the anti-depressants some doctors wanted to give me.I guess there is a time and place for everything. Just educate yourself and make the best decision you can.

Anna – I’m sorry the pessary didn’t work out. There are so many different types and it seems there are many gynecologists who do not have the experience to fit them properly. Hysterectomy is what they are taught and then practice during Graduate Medical Education (at least here in the U.S.). When surgery is done for prolapse, they suspend the bladder so I don’t understand why they so often remove the uterus versus suspending it too.

Due to heavy painful periods I had novasure ablation done and had my tubes tied at the same time. The ablation didn’t seem effective for me and a while later I started developing infections in my uterus due to the blood not draining properly. In hindsight, I believe that the ablation caused scar tissue which led to the blood not draining. After the second bad infection which required a D & C it became obvious that this would be a recurring issue and after obtaining a second opinion I agreed to the hysterectomy. The surgeon decided during surgery to take both ovaries as they apparently didn’t look good.

On one hand I am glad go to have done this survey as it most likely has prevented serious further infections, however I agree that I am now faced with another set of problems, such as being comfortable with doing HRT (patch), zero libido, bladder problems etc. obviously I can’t say whether I would have experienced those issues would I have gone through menopause naturally but at times I felt so crappy and had no clue what was linked to the whole hyster thing and what was normal part of aging. It wasn’t until I went to a female endocrinologist to check hormone balances and get help to determine HRT that someone explained to me what a shock it is for your body and your entire system to be catapulted into menopause overnight. I cried when she said that as until then I thought I just wasn’t tough enough etc. There is no general answer whether a hysterectomy is right for someone or not and everyone faces a different set of problems afterwards (some more some less) but my biggest advice would be to deal with female doctors regarding this matter. I am sorry but men have no clue when it comes to female hormones and the effect they have on our overall wellbeing.

Alex, I’m sorry your ablation led to having a hysterectomy. Unfortunately, although ablation is sold as a hysterectomy alternative, it’s more apt to lead to hysterectomy when done in younger women due to the damage it causes. A doctor at a renowned teaching hospital on the east coast said that ablation should not be done on women under age 50. Here’s my article about the harms of ablation – https://www.hormonesmatter.com/endometrial-ablation-hysterectomy-alternative-or-trap/.

It’s a shame that your gynecologist also removed your ovaries which has been shown by numerous studies to increase women’s chances for all kinds of health problems. What did he mean by your ovaries “didn’t look good?” As we go into perimenopause and menopause, the outer portion of the ovaries shrivels up while the inner part goes to work to produce hormones our whole lives to keep us healthy. This is one of many important facts gynecologists fail to tell women before they “consent” to hysterectomy and/or oophorectomy. Any procedure that alters the functions of the reproductive organs can have serious long-term effects on the endocrine system. And hysterectomy causes additional harm due to the anatomical changes to pelvic organs and the skeletal structure. Every women deserves to know these after effects so she can make an informed decision especially since very few of these surgeries are necessary.

Lydia – Have you enlightened your GP on the lifelong functions of the uterus, ovaries, tubes? It’s mind boggling to me that medical schools do not cover the lifelong functions of the female organs. Minimally, you would think every physician would know that the ovaries are endocrine glands and work in concert with the other endocrine glands since it’s an endocrine “system.” And alteration or removal of any part of a system can cripple the whole system. Every physician should be taught about the functions of all the body’s organs. I think part of the problem is that we call women’s sex organs the reproductive system but we don’t say that about men’s sex organs.

I have to think that medical schools purposely exclude the lifelong functions of the female organs from their curricula. Look how much money is at stake if they divulge the truth, not only from the standpoint of lost revenue from gynecologic procedures but also medical malpractice. The medical field has known about the harms of ovary removal since as far back as 1912! And there’s quite a bit of literature on the adverse effects of hysterectomy too.

i had my hysterectomy may 2008 due to uterine fibroids that were all thru my body and attached to all my other organs,,, a 90 minute surgery turned into a 5 hour surgery due to the scar tissue caused by the fibroids attaching to my organs…. i also had one one that rubbed a hole in my bladder thus my bladder is half its size due to stitches that were required… the hysterectomy took care of all the fibroids and i no longer had to deal with the cervical cancer i had been dealing with since 1984. i had wanted more children but that choice was now taken from me…. but since then i have had some of the problems mentioned…besides the weight gain and difficulty losing the weight i feel as if there is constant pressure on my bladder and since it is half the size it is supposed to be– i am constantly going to the bathroom…..even after i use the bathroom i feel pressure and pain in my lower abdomen… i go from constipation to diarrhea all the time and yes i have had all the tests to make sure everything is working properly but my pains continue… Sex!!! my husband and i haven’t been intimate since 2008…. i have no desire whatso ever …. tired all the time and still have hot flashes and there is the depression,,,all drs want to do is prescribe anti=depressants for menopause and hormone treatments are too expensive… i wish there had been an alternative to the hysterectomy… i feel as if all my organs are out of place and not functioning as they should.
I Had been going to a cliinic since i had no insurance and for years i kept telling them something was wrong after i had a uterine scraping once a pap smear came back abnormal but i was always told i was fine,,,once a was able to get insurance– i went to a gyn and thats wen the fibroids were found and some were the size of large grapefruits….had the clinic cared enough to check years earlier– the fibroid would have been found when they were small and not so many and i would possibly still have my female organs today….
My advice— have a good doctor who cares and see if there are other choices than a hysterectomy

Regina – I’m sorry your concerns were dismissed resulting in extensive surgery and organ damage along with the after effects of the loss of your organs. I understand the bladder pain to some degree. My whole abdomen is in pain all morning if my bladder is overly full and my bowel needs emptying, even after emptying both. I’ve found that not drinking anything (or very little) 3 hours before bed helps. But my situation is different from yours.

While it’s true that some hormone treatments are expensive, the estradiol pill (generic Estrace) is only $4 for a 30 day supply / $10 for a 3-month supply. Although they’re intended to take orally, I use them vaginally to bypass the first pass through the liver. They give me the estrogen I need to function fairly normally including sleep, mood, cognition and memory (as well as the hot flashes). The patch is much more expensive and did not work well for me.

Sadly, I came looking for something reassuring, but it looks like that’s not going to be the case. For starters, a year ago the day after Thanksgiving I had a complete abdominal hysterectomy due to endometrial adenocarcinoma stage II. The hysterectomy saved my life and while I’m enormously grateful for the outcome, I am now experiencing some of the problems you have described, specifically the horrible back/leg sciatica pain that I am having. It interferes with my job, driving, etc. I have wondered if an inversion table might help. There are bladder and intestinal quirks as well. In spite of the issues I am dealing with post op, I remember the day I got that call from gyno telling me what the biopsy revealed and it’s always a wake up call when I feel like having a pity party. I guess after reading the comments on here my biggest fear now is cardiovascular issues which I’m just now having to address. I guess therein lies the proverbial rock/hard place scenario. Hysterectomy for cancer may have saved my life, but my heart has to suffer for it.

Marie, I’m sorry that you had to have a hysterectomy for cancer. It sounds like you had some nerve damage too since you’re dealing with back/leg sciatica pain. I don’t know if an inversion table would help or not. Some physical therapy or certain exercises may help. Acupuncture is also a possibility. Best of luck in getting this treated and moving forward!

I am on injections to put me into the menopause chemically before the docs decide to do a hysterectomy. I have been on them for 3 months and am due to see the specialists in 2 weeks. I have my left fallopian tube at 8cm wide and full of fluid, my right ovary was beyond painful each month and I have just had a cyst taken out of my womb after a year of bleeding. I am having no pain now my hormones have been ‘switched off’. The hot sweats and night sweats are terrible, but nothing compared to the pain. I am also very worried about my tube exploding/splitting. Now I have read this and am totally confused. Help me as until tonight I was sure that I wanted a full hysterectomy. If I do Have it I won’t be offered hormone replacement. I am 48 years old. What other choices are there?

Michelle – I have the same question as Chandler. Are you on Lupron? Being that you are 48, menopause is probably not that far off at which time you should get relief from the endo pain since estrogen levels fall after menopause. Removal of ovaries or ovarian failure that commonly happens after hysterectomy increases our risk for all kinds of health problems. And as discussed in this article, the uterus has a number of anatomical functions.

I had a Total Abdominal Hysterectomy nearly 5 months ago in May of 2017 –
it was totally necessary because I had a large complex cyst on my right ovary,
a cyst on the left ovary, and 2 fibroids in my uterus.
EVERYTHING was taken out, leaving only my vagina –
and after I healed I was thankful for my life.
Suck it up ladies, sometimes these things are a MUST,
no way around it, your life is most important!
Yes, I exercise every single day to keep healthy –
Yes, I notice changes but I exercise more to keep
the body in place –
Yes, I get some aches and pains, but I deal with them
and get on with LIFE.

Jersey – It’s unfortunate that you too lost your vital organs for benign growths. That should NOT be happening. In other specialties, they remove the growths not the organs. So please don’t tell women they should “suck it up.” We should NOT accept this harmful treatment that’s rampant in Gynecology.

I’m curious what prompted you to go in search of articles on this subject. And since surgery has made you thankful for your life, did your doctor say your life was in jeopardy if your organs weren’t removed?

Actually, it was totally necessary as I had a precancerous condition going on,
and while I don’t think hysterectomies are always the answer, many of us
have this forced on us.
When you have a large ‘complex’ cyst growing on an ovary, that’s a dangerous
situation. And as I understand it, fibroids grow back, sometimes even larger
than they were.
No, I was not thrilled to have my organs removed – but the surgeon told my
husband and myself that he ‘saved my life’ – and for that I am eternally grateful.
My pathology report showed ‘no sign of malignancy’, so I was very lucky.
You may think that this means that my organs should NOT have been removed,
but believe me, I was in pain and knew something was wrong. Went for tests &
the doctor told me that within 10 days, this cyst had ballooned and was in danger
of bursting – and we all know that is very serious.
Every medical situation is a little bit different, some of us need total hysterectomies
to help avoid future problems.
I have had a few ‘aches and pains’ and a few hot flashes during the summer, and
searched to see if others have had similar issues. Generally, I feel fine and exercise
ALOT to keep the stomach and pelvic area as healthy as possible.
Chin up Ladies – question (as I did) removal of ANYTHING, and make sure you get
a trusted surgeon!

Yes, unfortunately many of us do have this “forced on us” not because it’s necessary but because they get away with telling us it’s necessary. Your story is eerily similar to mine as you’ll find is the case for many women. They are very good at marketing hysterectomy as well as oophorectomy which is why it’s so prevalent (45% of women end up having a hysterectomy!) when a woman’s lifetime risk of all gynecologic cancer is less than 3%.

Fibroids do not require a hysterectomy. Nor do benign ovarian cysts, complex or not. But that’s only if you have an ethical surgeon – one who doesn’t remove organs for benign conditions that can be treated (or watched / monitored for possible future treatment). Many precancerous conditions (uterine and cervical) are curable without organ removal.

The ovaries are the equivalent of a man’s testicles. They do not remove testicles for benign cysts. Numerous studies have shown that the ovaries are essential for good health. And they produce these health promoting hormones a woman’s whole life; they do not shut down at menopause so “surgical menopause” is a very misleading term. The uterus is also essential our whole lives. I hate to say it but five months is still early post-op to experience the full force of the effects. Hopefully, you will be one of those whose after effects are not as severe.

Thank you!!!!
I too had TAH/OBO for failed ablation and suspect growths on ovaries. The growths ended up being a complex cyst on one ovary (which you don’t mess with at 51 with a familial cancer genetics) and a parasitic fibroid causing horrid pain on other ovary.
Did I want this? Heck no! I fought it for two years but sometimes it is what it is and you do what you have to, to live!

I cannot tell you how UPSET I am for having a hysterectomy 7 years ago. I had my Uterus and Cervix removed, but kept my ovaries. I so wish this article had been available back in 2010, as it would have saved me from making this life altering mistake!!! Back in 2008 on New Years Day I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. I started experiencing very debilitating pain during my periods roughly two years later. I suspected I had fibroids or something going on, and after going on some Crohn’s forums, there were woman who said that having a hysterectomy was a good option for fixing the painful periods which was aggravating their Crohn’s every month. So there I went into see a gynacologist to request this surgery. He had suggested getting a Laparoscopy, but I had it in my head that a hysterectomy would solve all my problems, so I declined that option (BIG MISTAKE). The ONLY risks/side affects mentioned by this doctor was that there may be a chance of damaging my bowels or other surrounding organs during the surgery. He NEVER mentioned that I would lose almost an entire inch in height, that my rib cage would drop, and that I would experience debilitating back and neck pain. I can literally feel that my spine is compressed! My once very attractive shape is now GONE!!! I gained 20-25 pounds that I cannot lose, and I used to be very petite and have a great metabolism before this surgery. That is GONE! My upper arms have gotten bigger, and so have my legs because of this surgery. I no longer have a waist, and am many inches wider in my jeans because of this. I am SO depressed at how my body looks that I hate even looking in the mirror. I also get shooting pains in my ribs, and sometimes in my vaginal area that feels like a quick sharp lightening strike. The other strange thing that I am experiencing is sometimes it feels as if my chest has been opened up, and someone has poured very cold rubbing alcohol into my chest, it hurts and stings at the same time. It is a very strange sensation….just wondering if you can tell me if you have heard of this from any other women, and what could be causing this? Is this another side affect of this horrid surgery?

Crystal – I’m so sorry you, like just about every other woman, was not told about the many after effects of hysterectomy. The changes to my figure / physique are just as devastating as the rapid aging I’ve experienced from the unwarranted removal of my ovaries. I abhor the poochy belly and flat butt! In my opinion, this is the best kept secret of hysterectomy. I also have occasional severe chest pain but for me it occurs hours after doing push-ups. I never had this problem prior to hysterectomy. I was doing push-ups in the evening and I’d wake with severe crushing chest pain but it would stop if I lay still. In my case, I think it’s costochondritis. I read that this condition affects women more than men (70% vs 30%) so it would make sense that hysterectomy could be a risk factor. And it’s no wonder since hysterectomy causes the rib cage to sit on the hip bones (no more buffer between the two).

WS, thank you so much for your reply and giving me some information on what you think is causing these strange chest pain episodes I am experiencing. I am so sorry to hear of the chest pain that you are experiencing as well. No doubt, that this is a result of the butcher surgery they call hysterectomies. I can also relate to the flat butt effect as well. This surgery completely alters and changes a persons figure! I am also experiencing extreme fatigue, depression, and insomnia because of this wretched hysterectomy. I am also wondering if you think that the younger a woman has this done, the worse it will be for her??? I was only 33 when I had my uterus and cervix removed.

Crystal – Unfortunately, since some of the problems caused by hysterectomy can be progressive, the younger a woman is at the time of surgery the greater the risk for / severity of these problems down the road. The fatigue, depression, and insomnia you’re experiencing may be due, at least in part, from impaired ovarian function in which case some hormone therapy may help.

WS – Can you please tell me which Hormone Therapy works the best??? I am very afraid of side affects. Should I go through a Natural Path Doctor? BTW – I was told after the fact that I had Uterus fibroids after my uterus had been removed. I’m so upset, I firmly believe looking back that I could have had my fibroids removed without having this surgery (hysterectomy) and I wouldn’t be dealing with all these problems.

Crystal – Unfortunately, hormone therapy (HT) is not one-size-fits-all so you have to pick a delivery route that you think would work for your lifestyle as well as at a cost that you can afford and try one of them. There are pills, patches, gels and vaginal rings. I was started on a patch after surgery and did not do well on it. My estradiol blood level was considered “therapeutic” but I had many symptoms of estrogen deficiency. I did not try a different brand of patch. Some women have found they do not do well with one brand but fine with another. I’ve been on the generic Estrace (estradiol) pill which is a $4 prescription and it works well for me. I insert mine vaginally versus taking it orally and it works well for me. I have a high deductible now and patches and gels would be expensive. I know the gels run about $100 per month, not sure how much patches would cost me but probably about the same as gels.

I’m sorry Crystal. I didn’t answer all your questions in my previous reply. You don’t need a naturopathic doctor. You can start with your primary care doctor if you have one. It’s a shame that you were not told about the fibroids beforehand and told about all your treatment options for that. There are some radiology treatments as well as myomectomy that removes just the fibroids. Unfortunately, many of us were misled about our need for organ removal.

WS – Thank you so much for your reply on the Hormone Therapy. Sorry for my late response, and thank you again for taking the time to help me with this. I applaud you greatly for your research and for your work. I will take the knowledge that you have given me, and continue to warn woman about the horrific after affects of this horrible, mutilating surgery known as “hysterectomy”. God bless you WS!!!

I’m 3o this year I had an emergency hysto of new year’s Eve 3 years ago. Life was great the dust year, partially because I want Flint to the ER in an ambulance every month I want in pain from retiring cyst and I wasn’t receiving blood transfusions however I’m 5,9 I used to run 3xsa week was not athletically for but I was in good health other wise, wished 160 had a nice figure the first year I gained 30lbs, I can’t get to go away, I have severe bowel issues, batteries infections with horrible symptoms I wish not to repeat, my neck is in constant agony my back and hip hurt non stop my sciatica will hit at any given time knocking me if my feet I have bat wing arms that came from no where and now I am scared to go to the ER because the past two weeks I have been very ill and in person and I’m afraid I’ve got a prolapse of some sort. And another infection with horrid side effects.I don’t have insurance I can’t see my OB do you have any idea what’s it’s like in the ER for this type of things. I married seen is great no complaints I do have one ovarie. I agree it saved me from dinner terrible things but have me an entire list of other complications, I’m becoming extremely depressed I’m Moody and the person I used to be is Lost. Please give me some pain hopes I’m having a hard enough time going into my forties and watching my children get older knowing that’s all I will have

Michelle – I’m so sorry for the horrific after effects you’ve been suffering. Is there some sort of walk-in clinic (women’s health or otherwise) that you could go to? Even though you still have an ovary, it may very well be producing little to no hormones as that commonly happens. If that is the case (as shown by some blood work) then taking estrogen may reduce some of your menopausal type symptoms. I hope you can get the help you need!

I’m sorry that WS is very unhappy with her appearance post-hysterectomy. But, my experience is quite different. After carrying large twins to term and having a partial hysterectomy to remove a painful tumor, I have to say that I am thrilled to be alive and healthy to raise my babies. Is my tummy poochy, yes. So, I do muscular-skeletal work to keep my body strong. Aging is hard in a youth-obsessed culture. I’m alive because of important medical interventions. So, I think it’s fine to write about alternatives and personal experience. But the “unattractive figure” comment in this article seems to collude with patriarchal notions of what women’s bodies “should” look like. Friends, bodies change with age — some more than others, some because of medical issues, some because of more or less exercise or nutritional choices. But I’ll tell you that having the tumor and partial hysterectomy has allowed me to have bowel movements without excruciating pain — which makes me a more patient mom, a happier person, and a person without a tumor growing in my belly. I’m happy to have had my surgery and don’t care to be body-shamed by someone who thinks my middle-aged figure is unattractive.

JT – The figure changes caused by hysterectomy are not normal age related changes. They are the result of severing the pelvis’ support structures. And not only does hysterectomy destroy our figures, it causes degeneration of the spine and hips in the long-term. Hysterectomy is rarely necessary. Many are done for benign fibroid tumors (the reason for yours?) for which there are other treatments that preserve the uterus and its lifelong anatomical, skeletal, sexual and hormonal functions. I’m sorry that you too have had this surgery that typically trades one set of problems for another.

Thank you for this article. I’m scheduled for a total hysterectomy come Sept 22, 2017. I have a 9.6cm chocolate cyst on my right and only ovary (had left one taken out in yr 2000), endometriosis, adenomyosis, a small fibroid, and my fallopian tube is filled with water. I’ve been having pelvic pains, bleeding/spotting in between periods, bloating, constipation, urgency to urinate often, heavy menstruation among others. I’m 47, haven’t had any child. What I’m concerned about if I don’t get the hysterectomy is I might develop ovarian or endometrial or uterine cancer in the long run because of the endometriosis and adenomyosis. Genetically, there is cancer in the family. My mom passed away due to breast cancer. In my last check up, I have a thick endometrium. But having read all of the information you have given in this article, and the comments of those who have had hysterectomy, I am now having second thoughts on going through with the surgery because of the lifetime ill-effects of it. I would like to have your thoughts however on my situation. Would you suggest or advice me to have the surgery based on the situation of my reproductive system and genetics, or should I just bear with the pains until I naturally go into menopause? I don’t even know if menopause can shrink the cyst and make the pains go away.

YVR, I’m sorry you’re dealing with this. I cannot advise you on whether or not to proceed with a hysterectomy and removal of your remaining ovary. But I can give you my thoughts on your situation.

Removal of ovaries has been proven via many studies to be associated with many increased health risks and earlier mortality. A 2016 Mayo Clinic study showed it’s associated with 18 chronic conditions. Hysterectomy with preservation of one or both ovaries can have similar consequences as ovarian function is oftentimes impaired after the uterus is removed. And per this article as well as my others, hysterectomy has other serious long-term effects.

Breast cancer is common and most women who get it do not have a genetic predisposition. Ovarian cancer is MUCH MORE rare with the average woman’s lifetime risk being less than 2% (1.3% per SEER stats). If you have a family history of ovarian cancer, then you may want to get tested to see if you have the gene before allowing your ovary to be removed. Unfortunately, you may not be able to avoid surgery due to the size of the chocolate cyst (endometrioma). The problem is that puts you at risk for losing your ovary unless you have a surgeon with good cystectomy (cyst removal) skills and make explicit instructions on your surgical consent form that the ovary cannot be removed if the frozen section is benign. You may be more apt to get “restorative” treatment from a fertility specialist. This site talks about draining endometriomas versus removing them since cyst removal can damage the ovary – https://www.drmalpani.com/knowledge-center/articles/chocolate-cyst/. This can impair the lifelong endocrine functions of the ovary as well as fertility.

Have you been officially diagnosed with endometriosis via exploratory surgery and biopsy? I’m not aware of an increased risk of endometrial cancer with endometriosis or adenomyosis. There is an increased risk of ovarian cancer; however, I’ve read that risk is still very low since ovarian cancer is rare.

Being that you are 47, menopause is probably not far off. The irregular cycles may be, at least in part, an indication that you are in perimenopause. But adenomyosis and possibly the “small fibroid” may be contributing. A thick endometrium is common during perimenopause since we produce less progesterone to shed the lining which is also why periods become irregular. Also, fibroids, adeno, polyps, can make the lining appear thicker than it is on imaging. A thick lining is not a reason to have a hysterectomy. If the lining continues to build and stays thick for an extended period of time then a biopsy would be the next step. The best time to have a u/s to check the lining is a day or two after your period ends when it should be thinnest.

The problem with hysterectomy is that you will trade one set of problems that are temporary with a whole new set that are permanent.

Thank you WS for your reply. Thank you for your thoughts, facts and suggestions you have given. I have been officially diagnosed with endometriosis via exploratory surgery in yr 2000 when my left ovary was removed. We don’t have any ovarian cancer history in my family, thanks God. And by the way, my menses have been regular so far, so that makes me think I might not be in peri-menopause yet. Yes, the size of my chocolate cyst is what concerns me. And thanks for the website you gave. But it said there, “The major bugbear with chocolate cysts is that they tend to recur. This is why doctors will often combine medical suppression with surgical treatment. However, all these are temporizing measures, which help to buy the patient time – we really do not have any way of curing this enigmatic disease !” So it looks like I’m not winning in this situation. So now i’m thinking, if they will really have to take out my remaining ovary, do you think it be wise to have them retain my uterus (with endo, adeno and fibroids)? By the way, this is the site where it says there is an increased risk of developing endometrial cancer from endometriosis due to constant bleeding and inflammation:

YVR, you are in a very difficult situation with no easy answers. Do as much research as possible, ask as many questions from as many people as you can before making the decision. Realize too, that the information on this site is not intended to replace medical decision making. We can only provide the information that we have. For reference, regarding the suppression drugs, that typically means lupron and other drugs like it. We have number of articles on the side effects associated with that drug. Read up on it as well before making your decision.

Thank you, Chandler! I appreciate your reply and suggestions. I will do that- do more research as much as possible. I will also read more articles in this site. I know I’m in a very difficult situation right now, and I just have to trust the Lord in all these, whatever course I will decide to take. Thank you again for the infos you have given in this site. It is very helpful as doctors don’t really provide all of these infos to their patients.

YVR:.
You can always reschedule!!! don’t let them push you!!!!!!
Look up “fibroids a second opinion” website, there is other info on it regarding ovaries etc and Dr. Bill Parker (Santa Monica), whose website it is, has saved many many women from hysterectomies that they were told were absolutely the only option… he is considered an absolute myomectomy and laparoscopy expert, trains others worldwide and women come to him from around the country when all of their other doctors recommend hysterectomies and look at them like they’re crazy for suggesting anything else. If anyone can tell you what your other options are, or could recommend you a Dr closer to you who understands the importance of uterine preservation when at all pissible it is him.

YVR, are you still scheduled for your hysterectomy? Based on your issues, there are other things that can be done. They can go in and remove the fibroid and endometreosis and they can do endometrial ablation in the uterus so that you will either have light periods or eventually no periods at all. I had a lot of the same issues and they did offer me options. I wish I had done that instead of the hysterectomy. Endo doesn’t lead to cancer, I would not worry. As far as your mom having breast cancer, well that is something you can stay on top of but does not pertain to the other surgery you are scheduled for. I hope this helps.

I know this is comment is to an older post, but endo can lead to clear cell carcinoma a type of aggressive and chemo resistant ovarian cancer that I’m currently undergoing treatment for. Not all endo will be cancerous but all clear cell carcinoma cases are seen in women who have endo. Thank you and God bless you all – you strong, beautiful goddesses!

I had a laparoscopic hysterectomy on June 2nd. So far it seems like I take one step forward, two steps back. Going into my 10-week post op, I find myself regretting my decision to go thru with this surgery. While I was having pain before and lots of bleeding, it’s nothing compared to the agony I’m now in. I can’t touch my stomach, it’s too sore, too sensitive. Feels like a huge bruise. I can stand for about 10 min but then if feels like back labor. I have a dr appt today with my GP since my surgeon doesn’t call me back. I’m so tired, bloated… tried going back to work. I went for two days but had to quit since I couldn’t do it. I’m still paying for the two days I thought I was feeling up to working. I appreciate your article.

Jayme, You should not be in this much pain 10 weeks after a hysterectomy. Something isn’t right. How awful and disturbing that your surgeon is ignoring your calls. It’s not that unusual though. I’ve connected with a number of women whose surgeons (oftentimes their long-time gyns) abandoned them after surgery. I guess they figure they have no use for us any more. 🙁 That was my experience with my gyn of 20 years.

While I find your post interesting, at first informative, I can agree with another commenter that it’s almost fear-mongering. I just had my partial lap-hyst in mid-May and have had a few setbacks and have been waiting to feel my “normal” self and against my doctors and friends advice find myself searching the internet for comfort and came across your post and now fear, I will NEVER know what that will feel like. At just 38, I feel empty, emotionally and physically. My pelvic pressure and bloating is constant and a sadness has sunken in.

But, I KNOW, this will pass. This will not be worse than the constant heavy bleeding and rupturing of ovarian cysts that I was experiencing for months before my surgery. I had adenomyosis along with cysts that where rupturing almost as fast as they where being produced. SO no, I don’t think that this pelvic pressure and swelly belly compares. For some long suffering women perhaps this may have been our only choice, and it would be nice to know what MAY happen to our bodies without being scared that we may have innocently caused ourselves this misery. Support not Fear.

Kat, I’m sorry you consider my article fear-mongering. It’s a shame you had such awful gyn problems that put you in this crappy position. I totally understand feeling emotionally and physically empty. I hope you can get past it and any other problems that crop up. Unfortunately, educating women about the lifelong functions of the “reproductive” organs can be very upsetting for women who’ve already had surgery. We deserved this information from our doctors as part of the consent process. But that rarely happens… too much money at stake.

I also had adenomyosis and fibroids, pain and heavy bleeding. I had ablation without success and next a partial hysterectomy. I cry every time I look in the mirror, my midsection is so wide and I have always had a nice shape. I have gained about 6 pounds, but it looks like 60 when I look in the mirror. Things do not fit anymore and I have horrible joint pain and am developing osteoarthritis everywhere. My hips bones hurt, my back bone hurts, I have fatigue and depression. I am so regretful about my decision to have this surgery. These are the things the doctors do not tell you.

Jill, I’m so sorry that you’re also suffering and were not given the necessary information to make an informed decision. As you can see from the many comments on all the hysterectomy articles here on Hormones Matter, women are not told the truth. Even though you still have your ovaries, there’s a good chance they’re not producing a healthy level of hormones. They may have even failed completely. Naturally menopausal women’s ovaries produce hormones their whole lives. Hormones, especially estrogen, may improve your joint pain, fatigue and depression. That’s been my experience. Unfortunately, there’s no “fix” for the loss of skeletal integrity / changes to our figures. 🙁

Thank you. Well, I have a strong family history of breast cancer, so no hormones for me, it is too risky. I am experiencing low thyroid symptoms, but tests keep reading normal. I may seek a second opinion. But the skeletal changes and joint swelling and pain is the worst. Although, I was pretty ill from my conditions, the failed ablation made everything worse. I wish I could turn back the clock, I would not have done any of the surgeries. .

Jill, Studies have shown that estrogen does not increase risk of breast cancer. Combined hormone therapy (estrogen + progestin/progesterone) does increase risk. Estrogen has been shown to mitigate some of the increased health risks associated with ovary removal or post-hysterectomy ovarian failure.

My primary and gynecologist feel taking extra hormone too risky, but I will definitely discuss next visit. Thanks for the information and for this forum. It is nice to know it is not in my head and other people have similar problems.

I’m sitting here near to tears (not for the first time today) not just because of pain, but because it was like you took the words out of my head! You have described almost everything I have been through, even the sphincter muscle problem!
I had a vaginal hysterectomy just over 10 years ago, and I’ve suffered for it since. Its cost me my health (both mental and physical, depression and contemplating hurting myself, I’m not joking!) my job and nearly my marriage!
I’ve been diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome since, and was only offered hormone therapy after a blood test revealed I’d pretty much gone through the menopause, I was 34!
Nothing was discussed pre op, I wasn’t even given all the alternative options, in fact the gynecologist had my pre op form filled in before I’d walked in the room!
Nothing was explained about what happens after, I was offered a follow-up apt post op, 6 months later!
I’ve spent the last 10 years suffering alone, because I didn’t think anyone would understand, and then I find you lovely lot, to say I’m overwhelmed, is a serious understatement. Just gleaning some of the advice from some of you, is possibly going to change my life, and knowing I’m not abnormal because there ARE others going through the same crap as me….I can’t even explain!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart xxx

Mummy Badger, I’m so sorry you were also misled about the consequences of hysterectomy. I totally understand the suicidal depression and not being able to function. It almost destroyed every aspect of my life. It’s been 11 years and it still haunts me. And I always worry that my doctor will quit prescribing HT and I’ll be back to that hellish place. And I wish there was some sort of remedy for the awful figure changes. I hope you can find the “right” HT to improve your quality of life.

Hi ‘WS’
Who are you and what are your medical qualifications? Just wondering, there does not seem to be any information about you on the website. This is quite a comprehensive article but it does not detail any references to research.

Martine, I’ve been researching hysterectomy and oophorectomy for 11 years. You can find some studies about the effects of hysterectomy on bladder and bowel function. There’s also an article in Medscape about the effects of hysterectomy on the aging patient that explores some of the after effects. There isn’t a lot of information about the changes to the skeletal structure (spine, hips, rib cage) but the severing of the pelvis’ support structures causes widening of the hips, spine compression and descent of the rib cage. You can see it in hysterectomized women’s figures. Watch the HERS Foundation’s female anatomy DVD or study the anatomy diagrams on their website – http://www.hersfoundation.com/anatomy/.

Sorry to hear all of this . What is the other alternative? I have to stop bleeding or I will continue to suffer the horrible symptoms of severe anemia. They already prepped me for surgery by putting me on the Lupron shot. It’s supposed to put me in early menopause. Can this be reversed and can I start a new natural method? Or am I already damaged by the Lupron and provera I take 3 x a day? They are planning my surgery in august

Melissa, How long have you been bleeding? Are you in perimenopause? Bleeding can get unpredictable during the transition into menopause. Have you been on provera for awhile and it wasn’t working hence the addition of Lupron, a drug that can have serious side effects? Are you aware of a drug called tranexamic acid, brand name Lysteda? It’s a non-hormonal Rx medication that’s used to slow or stop bleeding. It seems that many gyns don’t offer it to their patients. They’re really quick to do hysterectomies though since only 10% of them are necessary. Keep us posted on how this plays out. I hope you can save your uterus and its many functions!

Melissa – Have you tried having an ablation already? If not you should absolutely do this first. There are three different kinds, and if one doesn’t work you should try another. I had the hydro-ablation and endometrial removal, it was the best nine months of my life. When I started bleeding again all the same problems came back mental fogginess, aches legs, pelvic floor pain, more bad days than good. When I went back to the doctor, the conclusion was, “oh I guess it’s time for you to be a hister-sister,” and on the list they put me. The problem isn’t the uterus, as much as the reaction your body is having hormonaly to what your uterus is doing day to day. If you can stabilize the uterus, everything else will sync up. If you remove the uterus there isn’t anything to sync up to. Since I had my hysterectomy five years ago I feel like I have aged 10 years. On the outside and the inside. All the things you read about that say will help the problems you have now, you won’t have a choice but to do them after the uterus is gone. Buying supplements, eating the right foods, cutting things out of your diet to see if it’ll make you feel better. And you can be pretty sure to add the problem of the pretty common bladder issues that you’ll have to deal with every day. Possible vaginal, bladder, and colon prolapse down the line. I wish I would’ve insisted on having another type of ablation, but I wasn’t given a choice. The best days of my cycle was the week before I menstruated. For me removing the uterus, took care of the bleeding problem, but put the rest of my body forever stuck in the worst days of my cycle. I do believe there are times when it’s necessary, especially if there’s cancer or life-threatening disease. If you were my sister I would beg you to cancel. You’re going to have to figure out how to stabilize your hormones after, so why not do it now while you still have some.

I am truly heartbroken. I got a pacemaker at 40 a few years back only to be told I needed to have a hysterectomy a year later. Now…a year post hysterectomy I am not in the WORST shape I think I can be in but the near 20 pound weight gain, loss of uterine orgasms, and the overall feeling that I am JUST NOT MYSELF and depressing episodes have me losing my mind!! And reading how heart issues can be increased by having a hysterectomy is REALLY making me even more infuriated because you would think with my having heart issue already, one of the two (gyno or cardiologist) would have fought against this or at least WARNED ME that this could be an increased issue for me. I am sad beyond belief and feeling like an incomplete woman and quite frankly, a sitting duck!

Saddened, I’m so sorry you were not provided with the necessary information about hysterectomy. Unfortunately, this is the norm because gyns and the medical industry make tons of money from removing women’s organs. About 90% of these surgeries are unnecessary. Based on Physician Assistant Cindy’s comment below, many cardiologists don’t seem to be aware of the increased risk of heart disease after hysterectomy or oophorectomy. I’ve read that these risks are 3x and 7x, respectively. But gyns and the medical industry probably want to keep doctors and patients in the dark so they can keep the status quo to maintain their revenue streams and expensive lifestyles.

That’s why I am meeting with a lawyer. This can not continue, I was told nothing like I feel. I felt fine till about one month post opp. Then alll hell broke loss. At first I thought the leg cramping was from not having any iron.

Jennie, I’m so sorry you too were misled about hysterectomy! I hope a lawyer will take your case! Unfortunately, very few women are able to find one and then it’s difficult to win these cases. Don’t give up searching! You can also file a complaint with your state’s medical board and your insurance company. Although it probably won’t matter, if more women did this, we may be able to make a difference in the overuse of these surgeries.

I am a Physician Assistant specializing in cardiology. Presently, I am not working while I’m raising my young children. I still have close ties to the medical field. I find it incredibly interesting that almost every female patient with coronary artery disease has a history of TAH and BSO. Years ago, I just accepted this as normal. Now that my eyes are opened, I know that this is not a coincidence but a major contributing factor if not a cause. There is a reason why coronary artery disease and osteoporosis is on the rise in the United States. It’s time to take the blinders off and wake up, America.

Cindy, There are SO many studies that show an increased risk for heart disease as well as many other health problems after ovary removal / oophorectomy. These risks would also apply to impaired ovarian function or complete failure that commonly occurs after hysterectomy. I have a lengthy document of studies showing the harm of oophorectomy as well as hysterectomy. This site has a comprehensive list of studies and various articles about oophorectomy – http://www.gynreform.com/citations.html. This is its companion site – http://www.overy.org/.

It’s truly appalling that this is not part of education for ALL medical students but especially for cardiologists and gynecologists. But of course the Gynecology Specialty would prefer it not be! Why in the heck are insurance companies authorizing and reimbursing this rarely necessary and egregiously harmful surgery?? Cigna would not divulge what was submitted to get approval for my “hysterectomy.” There was absolutely NOTHING wrong with my uterus or other ovary and all that should have been removed was the benign ovarian cyst. It should be a criminal act (assault and battery) to remove vital organs unnecessarily. Yet, women cannot even get medical malpractice attorneys to take their cases.

Sadly, attorneys protect doctors. You have no case unless you are dead. I had a good case against a doctor for sexual harassment and the attorney was interested in hearing my case. A few minutes into the conversation, the attorney asked what profession my employer was. When I said doctor, he hung up on me!
My mom went into ovarian failure after chemotherapy for breast cancer. She now has severe osteoporosis.
I spoke with a cardiologist about increased risk of heart disease post hysterectomy. He knew nothing about it. You are absolutely right. Education is needed. Insurance companies authorize this surgery because everyone makes money: the hospital, hospital staff, hospital equipment gets paid off (it pays off the DaVinci robot), phlebotomists, the lab, the pathologists, the nurses, the insurance companies, the pharmacies, and of course the doctors. It keeps the beds occupied, the staff employed, the malpractice insurance paid, the doctor’s lifestyle, their children’s education. The list goes on and and on. There is a special place in hell for these physicians who have given an oath to do no harm.

Yes, doctors are treated like gods regardless of their actions. I’ve read of ones who’ve sexually abused patients who are allowed to continue practicing so it’s not surprising that attorney would not take your case. However, I’m sure if they started de-sexing men that would change! I suspect with the da Vinci robot, that more prostates are being removed than previously but they wouldn’t dare touch a man’s testicles absent confirmed cancer!

I am 47 years old and had my hysterectomy 7 weeks ago. I just found this website by accident and it made me cry. They removed my uterus, folopian tubes, and cervix but they were able to preserve my both ovaries. After reading all these posts, I am so worried what might happened to me, to my figure, my back, my hips, my bones, my joints, my heart….. WS, what are some things I can do right now to be able to, at least partially if at all, prevent all these issues/problems.

Agnes – I’m sorry to hear you had a hysterectomy. I’m not sure you can do much about the skeletal / figure changes. As far as the others, being extra vigilant about your health would be a good idea. Weight bearing exercise helps maintain bone density / stave off osteoporosis. Aerobic exercise is good for your heart. Keep in mind that hysterectomy oftentimes impairs ovarian function which may or may not cause “menopausal” type symptoms. But if your ovaries do end up producing lower levels of hormones, hormone therapy has been shown to mitigate some of the increased health risks of loss of ovarian hormones. Best of luck to you.

Can you believe that the “Go Red for Women” website makes no mention of early nor surgical menopause or hysterectomy on their website as a risk factor for heart disease?? I thought they used to list early or premature menopause as a risk factor but I cannot find it anywhere on their site. I’ve written them before about this issue but they did not respond.

As far as osteoporosis, the ACOG doesn’t mention early/premature or surgical menopause or hysterectomy as being a risk factor. It only states that estrogen levels fall after menopause and this decrease triggers rapid bone loss. They make no mention of early bone density testing for women who’ve had oophorectomies and/or hysterectomies or are prematurely menopausal. (NO surprise there!) All it says is have one at age 65 or if younger than 65 and past menopause “have a BMD test if they have had a bone fracture because of fragile bones or have other risk factors for osteoporosis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, smoking, alcoholism, a history of hip fracture in a parent, or a body weight less than 127 pounds.”

That’s so unfortunate. Not surprising. That is why I didn’t bother getting a second opinion from another GYN. They are all malpracticing. I figured the second opinion doctor would just agree and say that he could do a better job so he could take the case. I got my second opinion from my primary doctor. Thank God the butcher doc needed preop clearance for surgery, otherwise, I wouldn’t have seen him. He told me NOT to do the surgery. He is a cardiologist.

Wow, lucky for you! What reasons did he give for not doing it? It seems a lot of primary care doctors don’t know enough about gynecology and would defer to the gyns. And then there are those who want to protect their peers’ as well as their own revenue streams so won’t speak up. That was the case on one review of the book “The H Word.” There was a primary care practice that commented that they have prevented many of their patients from undergoing hysterectomies but kept their review anonymous saying that referrals go both ways and they didn’t want to lose referrals. I wish primary care doctors were “gatekeepers” like in the old days when referrals were needed to see specialists. But things have changed plus gyns are now acting or trying to act as primary care doctors.

Yes, I was very fortunate. He was able to speak candidly with me because he is a colleague and friend. Thank God. He really emphasized the importance of getting another opinion but my eyes were opened and I knew the opinion would be the same since another GYN would want to make money off my organs. The main reason he gave me was that he knew the surgeon was the only game in town and does too many, what I will call “castrations”. I don’t trust any GYN anymore and I don’t see a need to go to them at all. I told him I wouldn’t do the surgery but he still said to go see someone else which tells me he isn’t fully aware of the repercussions of this butchering procedure.

A lot of things aligned at the same time that I too, as signs not to do the surgery. 1. While I was in the waiting room, I ran into a nurse friend of mine. She asked me why I was seeing the doctor and I told her it was for pre-op clearance for hysterectomy. She had a puzzled and concerned look on her face and reminded me of a friend of ours who had a castration. She told me that she has been on disability since her surgery, her hair has fallen out and she had has leg numbness since being butchered. 2. I booked a job for the day of my scheduled surgery. 3. Various people saying I’m too young for surgery. 4. I just got into snowboarding. 5.I found your blog. I’m so grateful.

I’m so sorry for what happened to you. I’m on a mission now to spread awareness. I’m talking to every person and brining it up in conversation with strangers whenever I can. I don’t care if anyone is taken aback by this sensitive subject. Planting the seeds is key.

You’re an angel for taking on this mission to educate women! That reminds me that I had printed up some index cards with bullet points about the after effects of hysterectomy and ovary removal. I need to print some more and have them ready to hand out. I’ve also slipped them into women’s magazines at the store.

If we’d all start calling ovary removal what it is – castration – that should make a difference too. But I won’t hold my breath! Also, I’ve had to avoid using that word on some sites so I didn’t get banned.

One of the reasons I’ve concentrated on hysterectomy (and not so much castration) is that so many people are misguided in thinking that hysterectomy is a benign surgery if the ovaries are not removed. Obviously, you now know that it is a very destructive surgery with a number of long-term after effects and risks.

If I hadn’t had a 20 year history with my gyn, I wouldn’t have dismissed my inner voice that told me something didn’t seem right!

That’s awesome you are making those cards. It’s interesting. When I see the word hysterectomy, I feel it just waters down the sunject and people gloss over it. When I see the word castration, it has a powerful effect on me. I see how it may turn people off and make people defensive. For me, it’s what I needed to hear. So many people told me I shouldn’t get the surgery but I just tried to defend the need for it. It was not until my doctor used the word butcher and I was like, “Woah!” It stopped me in my tracks. I definitely think the terminology does need to change to sex organs. So many people think the uterus is only good for making babies. People are brainwashed into thinking that. That is so far from the truth.

I am blessed to have had a hysterectomy. I have been living in pain for the past 40 years. I think for ME, its vain to be so upset about your exterior. Hips spreading, waist getting thick? Really. I was in pain daily and at times could not drive. I was wearing a waist supporter before my surgery. Women need to be blessed that they are gods children and are on this earth breathing. Go work with children that have cerebral palsy and spine deformities before crying about your shape!

Samantha, For a small minority of women the trade-offs are worth the resolution of symptoms. 40 years is a long time to be in pain. Do you have endometriosis? Were you in menopause and still experiencing pain when you had your hysterectomy? Menopause usually takes care of most gyn problems.

Dear WS,
You are a Godsend. I am forever grateful to you for sharing the truth that is hidden from women. I found your article a week before my schedule procedure. My doctor was putting the fear of my uterus for seven years and I finally agreed to the surgery. I am a physician assistant and was not told about any of the complications. As a physician assistant, I know that medical professionals can easily state in the documentation that risks and benefits were discussed with the patient even if they weren’t. Thank you, thank you, thank you for saving my life. I can’t thank you enough. The field of gynecology disgusts me. These doctors should protect women’s health but instead destroy it for money. It’s truly sickening. Keep spreading the word. You are a hero. God bless you.

Dear Cindy, I am SO thankful you found my article(s) before your scheduled surgery! And I thank you for sharing your story and speaking out against this scam of egregious harm by the Gynecology specialty. I can only hope and pray that you, especially as a physician assistant, can prevent other women from falling into this trap. I urge every woman who is considering hysterectomy and/or oophorectomy or is told she needs one finds my articles before it’s too late. My 13 articles can be found here – https://www.hormonesmatter.com/post-hysterectomy-skeletal-anatomical-changes/#comments. Please share. Thank you!

Yes! Thank you. I’m telling every woman I meet and I’m telling every man who has a mother, sister, wife, daughter in their life and sharing about this crime against women. It’s I crime against humanity because when lives and families are destroyed, it impacts everybody.

I’m bawling reading your response. It means so much to have someone who has not had this surgery to understand the wide-reaching impact it has on families and society as a whole. Plus the fact that you’re a medical professional means so much more. I’m thankful that you are in a position to prevent women from undergoing this grossly overused destructive surgery. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! YOU are a Godsend!!

I was searching some information about what its going on after hysterectomy. I just had mine 3 weeks ago. Right now I don’t see and I don’t feel any change but in all honesty I didn’t have any symptom before surgery either. My fibroid was discovered during a gynecology exam for some other issue. I had multiple fibroids but one was about the size of an almost full term pregnancy (and it showed) I looked like a 9 mo pregnant woman). I actually find out about my fibroids not here in the states but back home in my native country in Europe. There I was told it should come out because it was already pushing other organs away from their normal place since it was that big and it was growing fast (one time it grew 70% in 3 months). Mine was growing inside the uterus and I also had liquid around. My uterus was also twisted and turned and somehow it fell towards the back (wired I know). One problem I had before surgery was when I had to bent over I felt like all the organs were in my throat and I couldn’t breathe. I don’t feel that presure now. At first my gynecologist here in the states said surgery is not necessary for fibroids but I insisted into having an ultrasound to look at it. I had one done in Europe and I also had an MRI or CT scan done there. I had brought those results on a dvd but the doctor didn’t look at them. I was worried because the information I got from the doctor in Europe was that if this thing is continue to grow it was going to give me other problems as well like swollen ankles (which I had big time) and other problems I’m not gonna putt all here but one major problem I was told it could happen is that when it grows too big is gonna put presure on your blood vessels in your legs and that can put you at risk to get blood clots. After I had an ultrasound done here in the states my doctor came back saying that unfortunately due to the size of the larger fibroid and the speed of the growth I have no other option but the hysterectomy. Now looking for information on what is going to happened to your body afterwards I came across this website and now I’m freaking out. I do have a friend who had a hysterectomy done 17 years ago and she said she didn’t see any changes except the ones related to the symptoms. She is 60 but she looks like 40 and she has a body to envy. She looks great. Is it possible that maybe not everybody goes through the changes I was reading in here? Anyway all I can do now is wait and see how I will change.

Mrs. Clm, With a fibroid that large, hysterectomy may have been your only option although there are some doctors who can remove large fibroids and preserve the uterus (myomectomy). The effects I covered are anatomical facts. Some women may not notice or be bothered by the changes as much as other women. But your body will change. And for those who suffered with severe problems prior to their surgeries, the trade-offs may be worth it. In your case, your post-hysterectomy midsection that will gradually take “shape” won’t be as pronounced as your fibroid-filled abdomen that made you look 9 months pregnant. Only time will tell how much your bladder, bowel, and sexual function (as well as ovarian function / hormones) are affected.

Health care is supposed to restore health versus trading one set of problems for another. Myomectomy (removal of fibroids leaving uterus intact) is restorative while hysterectomy is destructive, trading one set of problems for another. Likewise, oophorectomy (ovary removal) is destructive both before and after menopause since the ovaries produce health promoting hormones a woman’s whole life. Even removal of Fallopian tubes is destructive as it has been shown to cause histological changes in the ovaries which is why it reduces risk of ovarian cancer. But most women do not need their risk reduced as it is already VERY low at less than 2% (1.3% per U.S. government statistics).

It is very very possible because the vast majority of women that have hysterectomies have an improvement in their lives and bodies because the condition that caused them to have a hysterectomy in the first place was unbearable. It it sad to me that these anecdotal experiences, however horrible, are being described as fact for all women. It is fear mongering and many women are probably suffering with fibroids and ovarian cysts because of the fear this kind of thing creates.

RH Pearson, Women don’t have to choose between hysterectomy or live with fibroids or ovarian cysts. Both of these conditions are treatable without removing any organs. In every other specialty, they remove the growths not the organ! It is fact that the anatomy is changed by hysterectomy, both from an organ (bladder, bowel, vagina) perspective as well as from a skeletal (spine, hips, rib cage) perspective. I’m curious what prompted you to go in search of hysterectomy information.

I had a complete hysterectomy, including removal of both ovaries, when I was 41, a year after my 4th child was born. Months after her birth, I sat on the toilet with a mirror, trying to discover what this rubbery pink thing bulging out from my vagina. An ER visit on my birthday confirmed it is my uterus AND my bladder. I got an appointment t to see the doctor who had delivered all my children, and she advised removing my uterus instead of reattaching it. Once she learned I had an aunt who had ovarian cancer, she convinced me that The only safe choice would be a complete hysterectomy, fallopian tubes, ovaries, everything. I knew of a couple of women whose bodies changed so much after their surgeries, but she promised it wouldn’t happen to me. I’m 57 now, but have not had an attractive or feminine figure in many years. My legs used to be curvy and I received many complements on them. My body began to change rapidly after recovery. My legs are now straight up and down and look like bird legs, and have been like that since my early forties. I developed a pot belly, before surgery I still wore a bikini! I have no waist, and am shorter by about 2 inches! My hair was so thick that when I went to a salon, the hairdressers always teased me about having to mix up more color partway through. Now I have kept my hair short for the last 14 years, because it is so much thinner that it looks terrible longer. My figure is truly a parody of how I looked before, my butt is completely flat, not even a crease beneath the buttocks because they are gone. No fat there, or on my hips. In contrast, my upper body looks out of proportion. I have to wear a size 40 bra now because my ribcage must have gotten wider. It also seems that my neck is shorter and my jawline is very saggy and undefined. Yes I:m 57 now, but this happened to me in my early forties! It is difficult to find clothes that fits properly. I need to wear tops in extra large, but can fit into my slender teen son’s skinny jeans. Honestly, my figure reminds me more of a man’s build than a woman’s. One more thing the doctor didn’t reveal, the external changes to my vagina. The inner lips completely disappeared, as though they’d been removed. It halpe ed first on one side and then the other. I wish I had never let her talk me into it. But she promised I would never are and changes. Within the year, I developed widespread pain throughout my body and was eventually diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I was on HRY for a few months, and then she said I had risk factors that prevented her from writing any more prescriptions for it. I began to grow facial hair in place of formerly smooth skin. It has been terrible for my self esteem, and at this point I don’t feel like a woman anymore, maybe a caricature of one.

Feelings about supracervical hysterectomy? I keep getting that I need hysterectomy rather than myomectomy b/c I am high risk for bleeding since i have a subserosal (exterior) fibroid is 8.7 x 5.8 x 5.8 cm and I also have a small 2x2x2cm submucosal (very small). Because of what I hear on this website, hysterectomy is scaring me. I do know that either my cervix or my uterus is STRONGLY involved with my organs! NO DOUBT! No matter what the research has shown. BUT, I am soon to be 47 and with myomectomy the fibroids can return. So, do I just do supracervical and then I won’t chance having to come back for another surgery later from something else like my mother with endometriosis? I do not want UFE because it remains in the body and rots and ONLY decreases by 30-50% in most cases AND can return. I heard pain is horrible also. So I am confused. I see most everyone saying hysterectomy and NOT supracervical hysterectomy that are having these issues (pelvic shift, prolapse, protruding abdomen, sexual issues). Here is what my research shows….. please bare with me it’s lengthy.
Getting medical:
Nerves: With supracervical, paracervical plexus and ganglia (Frankenhäuser plexus) nerves remain intact. Sensory nerve fibers from the cervix, upper vagina, and urethra pass through the Frankenhäuser plexus and pelvic nerves to the second, third, and fourth sacral nerves. Sensory nerves of the lower vagina, perineum, and distal urethra pass primarily through the pudendal nerve. So, is the sexual sensation preserved?? At least is it more-so to the total hysterectomy for sure!
Ligaments: Endopelvic fascia (connective tissue around each pelvic organ and pelvic sidewalls) remains untouched since the 2 supportive pelvic ligaments (cardinal and uterosacral ligaments) are not severed. These are the ligaments that hold the cervix and the vagina in place preventing pelvic prolapse.
2/3rd of these ligaments attach cervix (cardinal ligaments) and 1/3rd to the vagina. So, prolapse and pelvic shifting I would not think could occur??
HELP!!!
Signed: Confused in Houston Texas!

Kim, What symptoms are your fibroids causing? If it’s mainly bleeding, have you tried hormonal or non-hormonal meds (such as birth control pills or Rx tranexamic acid / Lysteda)? Being that you’re 47, menopause is probably not far off when fibroids shrink. It would be a shame to have a hysterectomy and trade a few years of bothersome fibroids for decades of the nasty and progressive after effects of hysterectomy.

It sounds like you have uterine orgasms. I did too and orgasms are very disappointing now. They’re like a ripple instead of a tsunami. I don’t know how much it would help (if at all) to keep your cervix… it seems like it would help some. I know of women who kept their cervix and they also have the altered figure. The HERS Foundation’s female anatomy video may be helpful – http://www.hersfoundation.com/anatomy/index.html.

Keep in mind that hysterectomy is very lucrative. A hysterectomy can be done much quicker than a myomectomy and I don’t think insurance reimbursements make up the difference. It seems I read that both surgeries are reimbursed at about the same amount. Time is money to a surgeon. And many gynecologists do not have good myomectomy skills so will make excuses for why it’s not a good option for you (versus just being honest and telling you they don’t have those skills). Did you know that gyn residents must do AT LEAST 70 hysterectomies but no myomectomies? My surgery was done at a hospital (Mercy) that I did not even realize was a teaching hospital and these surgical requirements seem to have been the main reason why my uterus was removed.

It’s important to listen to your intuition and do your own research because hysterectomy is the one of the top overused surgeries with only 10% being necessary. Plus it causes so many other problems down the road.

Best wishes for getting proper treatment which should restore your health not trade one set of problems for another.

Kim, There’s also a focused ultrasound / MRI guided focused ultrasound procedure (ablation) for fibroids that may be an option. Since it’s done by radiologists, gynecologists probably don’t tend to mention it as an option (lost business or them).

I agree too. I was told to have my tubes tides and six month later my doctor had to do a full hysterectomy. Now my naval has grown a keylard as they call it on my naval due to the surgery not being done properly. After six months of my full surgery, my belly looked like the size of a 36 weeks old pregnant person and I have gain a lot of weight which I thought I would never let myself do. I have always been in shape and running was my best interest. But after the surgery, your body feels sluggish, tired, sometimes you have mood swings which is odd. All in all, the surgery is only for risk factors such as fibroids or extreme circumstances, but they do not tell you the other parts that will happen after to your body. Once you start noticing the changes and you go back for a check up, they start to tell you, “oh you won’t see this, this is just your body getting adjusted”. Also if you have dry bleeding or spotting and there is nothing there to draw conclusions too, see your doctor. A year after surgery, women go through so much.

Chiquita, I’m sorry that you were also misled about the after effects of hysterectomy. And yes, these surgeons then dismiss our complaints post surgery and “wash their hands” of us. When I called my surgeon’s office desperate for help with hormones and other issues from surgery, the nurse said she’d never heard of those problems and hung up on me. I’d been their patient for 20 years. That’s when it really hit that I was exploited to fatten their bank accounts. Retrieval of my medical records shortly thereafter confirmed that.

I have the same thing happen to my body . i had my hysterectomy at 35 and i had a well proportioned body i was slim and had good strength in all areas. Now i look pregnant all the time i have weak muscles and i get headaches alot sometimes migraine. My face is more bloated and my arms too my chest got bigger and my butt. I cant work anymore due to headaches and weakness in my legs. I used to work full time and wihout effort. I understand sometimes hysterectomy is needed to save lives such as in my case but the outcome is still the same isnt it. I am sorry for your post hysterectomy experience hugs to you… Xo and you are still beautiful as am i . lots of love 💘

Alishya, I’m sorry that the side effects of your hysterectomy has destroyed your ability to work. I know of a number of women who’ve had to go on disability after their hysterectomies. You would think our state governments would care about this since it’s costing them.

I had an emergency hysterectomy at the age of 22, following the birth of my son. Being told by a consultant in his 60s that, I would be “ok just sterile that’s all, I’ve taken the net but the goalposts are still there!” Was an experience I’ve never recovered from, I will never forget the look of impatience and disdain on his face, I hope that if he’s still alive he dies a slow painful death, they told me it had never happened before, it didn’t take me long to discover that was the first lie of many. I was not offered counselling, instead they sent a social worker to watch me for three months, to make sure I didn’t blame my baby, I didn’t know she was a social worker, I thought she was a counsellor, that’s what I was told, so was shocked and bewildered when she told me the truth, though I did think that her counselling skills were rubbish at the time, handing me photocopied information about hysterectomies with no advice for somebody of my age was vague to say the least, but I was young.
I made an official complaint when my son was a year old, a year of pain and being ignored, told I was depressed, I’m sure I was but I was also bleeding a lot as well, my complaint was for lack of care, I didn’t know at the time that it was negligence. I was given counselling, it was a man who knew nothing about hysterectomy, I saw him once and he suggested that he could arrange for me to be admitted into hospital for tests to find out what was causing my pain and bleeding. I trusted him, went into the hospital the next day and was promptly put into a psychiatric ward and drugged up for the next four weeks. I didn’t complain after that, I took my antidepressants like a good girl but I had pain and bled for the next nine years, I was so tired all the time and permanently anaemic. I started to believe that the blood was my imagination even though, as a scientist, wearing a white coat, it was pretty obvious to everybody around me that it wasn’t. I was taken to a&e and told that there was something wrong with my cervix, it was a surprise as I’d been told all this time I had no cervix. I was brought in the next day to have the cervical stump removed, I wanted to see it once it was removed, I made that very clear. I was in surgery for six hours and the cervical stump was immediately destroyed, I was told that I’d been making “too much of it”
When I asked for access to my medical records, 15 pages were missing, there was no record of me ever having given birth. I decided to leave England after that and went to Ireland to take up my medical place again now my son was older, I was given a place in the 4th year. It was my chance to start again, try to forget and move on, I decided that I wanted to donate my eggs, this was six months later, I was taken into another room and told that they thought there was a problem and wanted me to come in for a biopsy. I don’t really want to go into too much detail but basically I had one ovary removed and my vagina, I had secondary, the primary was missing, a medical impossibility almost,( though everyone knew that the primary had been taken and disposed of. If I hadn’t’ve decided to donate my eggs I would never have known and wouldn’t be alive now, though there have been times that I wish I wasn’t alive.
They built me a new one using part of my ileum, not that I needed it as its been 25 years and I can’t imagine ever wanting or having sex again.) I came back to England and have been ignored again since, until it reached a point where I was left for so long again (6 months) following an abscess on my leg, which became a fistula, (I had faeces pouring out of my leg and they still ignored me) which they then tried to correct but couldn’t help me as it had tracked up my leg and through the rectal muscle, so now I have a permanent seton placed and every few months I had another placed where it had branched off elsewhere, it was the final straw, I became a recluse five years ago, I haven’t left the house since and nobody seems to think that’s an issue, they just started delivering my prescriptions instead so I didn’t have to leave the house, makes me wonder if it’s just me or the nhs. I reached the point where if I had to have another male doctor intimately examine me I would kill one of them. I’ve had more men fiddle about with me downstairs in the last 25 years than the most popular prostitute. I’ve lost count of how many operations I’ve had. One time I lost my temper with a doctor over my claims I had a fistula and his choice to ignore me and tell me I was wrong, because I wouldn’t back down and shut up he sent my swab request for gonnorrhea. Obviously if I talk back it means I sleep around, either that or my partner does. I haven’t had a sex life for 25 years. I made a complaint and was given a new doctor, I had to take my pants down before he introduced himself to me, he then performed surgery on me and nobody could tell me what had been done, for three months. It was almost laughable that I was bleeding in hospital for a fortnight on the ward and I couldn’t tell anybody what I’d had done, nobody else could tell me either, they couldn’t read his writing apparently. That was my punishment, it was pretty obvious to me by then. It all sounds like a really bad dream, I wish it was. My relationship with my sons father has finally broken down. I consider suicide on a almost daily basis. I cannot bear men, only my son.

I was given hrt patches at 25. Been told on many occasion that I’m ‘far too complicated’ to be given medical advice I have not had a libido since the hysterectomy and I noticed that some gynaecologists seemed openly amused by me when I tried to explain how horrendous it was without a libido in a relationship. I have been guilt tripped into sex so many times that there were times I couldn’t walk the next day, the pain of intercourse when your body won’t react is like being impaled.

Andrea, what a horrendous experience. Medical abuse on top of medical abuse and then more medical abuse. Since you have share it here as a comment would you consider sharing it as a post so that more women might read it. It’s an important story to tell because as horrendous as it is, I am pretty certain that you are not the only one and if we share it as a post more women might be inspired to come forward. Please let me know. Thank you for commenting.

Andrea, How horrific… beyond words!!! It’s appalling that there are people that are this evil and medical professionals to boot! I’m sure it took a lot of courage to share all this. Thank you for doing so. It’s so important for women to be aware of this dark side of women’s health “care.”

I had a complete hysterectomy 4 months ago 1 month shy of my 57th Birthday! Greatest thing I have ever done! I had problems for years my first gyn doctor never diagnosed my endometriosis along with scare tissue Doctor made me think this is how I should feel pain during sex and painful menestrual cycles. It was not until I tried to get pregnant with my second child and changed doctors that the new doctor diagnosed my problem also found in my medical records from the radiologist from my prior doctor that I had a problem from the radiologist view of my tests but doctor either never completely viewed my tests or he just did not know how to treat the problem and blew off the radiologist findings with that being said my new doctor said I should of had a D & C So I went through infertility treatments for several years because my ovaries and fallopian tubes were scared and damaged I was then sent to a wonderful infertility doctor I was going to go through with IVF but prior to starting the process God answered my prayers I was expecting a baby then 15 months later I was blessed with my son Getting back to my complete hysterectomy well I’m thankful I heeded my doctor’s advice because I felt terrible for years prior to having my surgery I just thought this is how I should feel I’m post menopause etc., I had a horrible post menopause breakthrough bleeding with cramping felt terrible! My wonderful caring doctor and his great nurse practice advised me I should go ahead and have the surgery. My cousin died several years ago of ovarian cancer she was diagnosed at age 57 and died at age 61 my husband cousin at age 58 was diagnosed with ovarian cancer she had no systems was rushed to the ER and through tests and surgery found her cancer she is fighting for her life through cancer treatments at this time As for me I’m grateful that I listened to my doctor and went through the surgery he said I was a complicated case with so much embedded scar tissue and endometriosis growing all behind my uterus and into my lower intestine my uterus and fallipian tubes and ovaries were embedded in a mess! No wonder I would cramp terribly prior to bm’s or had horrible diarrhea some would mistake my tummy problems for IBS. I’m here to say I feel great if my butt falls and my gut sticks out which it has not I really do not care if it did as I accept my body changing is part of the aging process! I Praise God for His Wisdom giving Physcians wisdom to help a woman like myself I feel great I want to be around feeling great and having energy for my husband and being the best that I can for my 3 adult kids and my 2 grand daughters. Do your homework talk to your doctor I did I’m grateful I did I’m blessed to have him and his wisdom and how he cares for the health and well being of his patients!

I also had a Bladder Lift but my doctor actually Pulled my Bladder back where it should be during my hysterectomy I no longer leak or leak urine when I sneeze!! Ladies all I can say is I’m blessed to have the gyn/ surgeon that I have. I feel like a new woman! – Cindy

Cindy, I’m glad your recovery has gone well. You’re still early post-op. The surgical recovery is the easy part. It’s the long-term and progressive effects of an altered anatomy that are so damaging and distressing for hysterectomized women. It sounds like your surgeon failed to inform you of these after effects as most do. Granted, some women find these negative effects an acceptable trade-off for their (temporary) gynecologic problems or genetic cancer risks (although genetic ovarian cancer risk doesn’t necessitate hysterectomy).

I absolutely agree Tee…though I’d get some info and instead got clobbered with negative unhelpful blaming…I had cancer. I want forced to do this and I’m feeling better every day. My ligament pain, cancer, excessive and constant blood loss are gone…there should be disclaimers on sites. Go to Hyster sisters…they help, not hinder, recovery.

Kim, I’m sorry you had cancer. That is about the only time a hysterectomy is absolutely necessary. Unfortunately, Hystersisters is biased. I know a number of women who have been banned for posting their experiences and being told they were too negative. Others were banned for sharing their experiences with HRT after their hysterectomies. This is especially troubling in that some women go there to seek out information prior to their hysterectomies. Many women are told by their doctors that they need a hysterectomy or it’s their only option so it’s a shame that some sites perpetuate this over-treatment and harm.

I found this page through a search. I am trying to self-diagnose because since my hysterectomy in October of 2016 I have been falling apart. It is hard to recognize the side effects directly after surgery because you are tired, sore and miserable. I had a spinal block . For me that was the reason I had extreme back pain. None before the hysterectomy. Leg weakness. This is the norm for me now. In my job I walk approx. 7 miles in my day often pushing heavy items. I could do this easily before the surgery, now it is an extreme struggle to have the energy and strength in my legs to do my job. Forget trying to exercise or do house chores after work. A new trait I am experiencing after hysterectomy is fatigue. I go home from work and crash sleeping for 12 hours without even waking. I have stood up to fall to the floor because of the weakness in my legs. It is as if I have went from 45 to 95 overnight. I have had bladder and bowel issues. My bladder does not work, and when I have a movement there is pain. I have pain in the exact spot that brought me into the gynecologist in the first place. Through my searching I think it is now adhesion issues. My most peculiar symptom that is driving me insane is my tongue is on FIRE. After searching the net I have found that women experience burning mouth syndrome after a hysterectomy. The gynecologist and my family doctor say that my symptoms cannot be because of the hysterectomy. I am into the 6th month post op with symptoms almost as bad as when I went in for the hysterectomy. I have had numerous appt with my family doctor and gynecologist searching for answers. How can it be that there are No medical explanations, no studies, no informed counseling before and after a hysterectomy. (All test come back negative for diabetes, thyroid, etc. I have not had an MRI of the spine.) If I had done any research before I would not have had the surgery. Because endometriosis is not cured by a hysterectomy. I read an earlier comment of this one person that was prescribed duloxetine for the nerves. I have another follow up apt with my doctor and will ask for this prescription. My gynecologist said the burning mouth syndrome is not her area, but has to relate to nerves (although everything I have found says it relates to hormones). So, hopefully this will solve the tongue and leg weakness issues. I hope that sites like these bring more awareness that there needs to be more education before surgeries. More guidelines for doctors to follow such as is it medically necessary. On a different note, I had a friend who had a hysterectomy a week after me and they are doing great. No issues, better than ever.

Amy, I’m sorry you, like most women, were misled by your gynecologist. Of course your gynecologist will “lie and deny” that your problems were caused by the hysterectomy! Is your family doctor really that clueless? I think you should give him/her a list of websites of women’s experiences. He/she needs to be educated!

Krissy, Some women’s problems are so debilitating that they find the benefits outweigh the side effects. I’m curious what prompted you to search for information on hysterectomy since you’ve already had one. How long ago did you have it?

I agree with you. I had with no options left because of a multiple fibroids in my uterus that started to press on vital internal organs. I feel so much better 7 months after the surgery. I lost some weight and I was pleased with that. No protruding belly etc. as it was before the hysterectomy. No weakness. No depression. In fact, I would recommend to move more, get outside, exercise, be involved and social. All will be well.

Exactly! I ran across this article while looking for post op recovery info. I have 9 aunts and 3 cousins who’ve had hyterectomy due to genetic issues. Not one them have a single problem listed on this horrible fear inducing article! Take care of your body and mind and thank God your alive. Be positive!

Amanda, Did your doctor not give you explicit surgical recovery instructions? Or is recovery taking longer than you were told it would take? I’m sorry you consider my article “fear inducing” but these are anatomical facts. Very few women would choose to have elective hysterectomies if they knew what it does to the body both anatomically and hormonally. I hope your recovery goes well.

I was bullied into a radical hysterectomy that was totally unnecessary and harmed irreparably by a group of unscrupulous doctors involved in the hysterectomy racket. They needed guinea pigs for surgeons-in-training at a teaching hospital so deliberately misled and misinformed me into immediate surgery. Fabricating cancer is one of the dirty tricks they use to frighten women into unnecessary hysterectomies. Do NOT trust gynaecologists unless they are against hysterectomies and will only do one after they have tried every other option and the woman has PROVEN cancer. Many greedy pathologists get a kickback from the hospital to fabricate cancer so their are plenty of guinea pigs to train. I know because I am one of those rotten apples. This is rampant in the corrupt, gynaecological profession…

I think that this site is absolutely terrible and downright mean considering that a hysterectomy is in fact sometimes medically necessary die to life threatening conditions. It causes me and i am sure other women distress and left worrying “after” the fact. I had a hysterectomy last friday because i suffered many many years in pain and discomfort and had 7 abdominal surgeries due to issues with my uterus fibroids and ovarian cysts before it became medically necessary to have my uterus removed. Are you trying to frightn women into NOT having the surgery even if life threatening? Also, have you no compassion for women who look at this site post-op when it is already said and done. I am appauled that a female would write such things.

Whoa Tee! Don’t shoot the messenger! I can certainly understand your anger and distress over not having been told these facts by your surgeon. I felt the exact same way after discovering the truth after my hysterectomy. The lack of informed consent by ob/gyns is precisely the reason I’ve written a number of articles about hysterectomy. It’s a shame that most women don’t find them until after they’ve already had surgery especially in light of the fact that only about 10% are necessary. 🙁 It’s the doctors who are using fear tactics (to get women into the operating room). Your anger should be directed toward your surgeon and hospital / surgical center.

In my case I would have died without a hysterectomy. I had a fibroids that were the size of my husband’s size 15 shoes.
The one at the top of my cervix was the size of a softball.
The fibroids I had were growing so fast they were causing my uterus to split which caused me to bleed internally. I was losing so much blood I had to use size 7 diapers every 40 mins because super overnight pads wouldn’t work. I HAD to get blood transfusions every week until I had my hysterectomy. My options were have the hysterectomy or bleed to death.

Pills and shots only made things worse in my case I received all the side effects none of the help or cure.
Not every Dr is lying about a woman needing a hysterectomy to save her life.

Rose, I’m sorry your problems necessitated a hysterectomy. While it’s true that some are necessary, the majority are not. Only about 10% are necessary. As you can see from the many comments on this article (as well as my other articles), the majority of women did not need any organs removed.

Your doctors should have talked to you about all of this. There are so few remedies for women’s health issues. Anger and depression are a natural part of any traumatic surgery. We feel robbed and that we have lost control. I’m so sorry. Please be gentle with yourself, you need tlc now.

I’m so happy you said this. I am sitting here with knots in my stomach 3 weeks post op surgery. For me surgery was my only option as it was life threatening if I hadn’t. Suffering with endometriosis. I’m praying that I have a successful recovery and I can go back to a normal life and be active as I was before without the pain.

I think this information is very misleading and dangerous. I have had a full abdominal hysterectomy. All ops have side effects, but not having the ops is not a possibility for most , if not all, women. I advise sanity over vanity anyday.

Julie, These are anatomical facts – the skeletal structure is altered by hysterectomy and organs are displaced in addition to the other (possible) negatives – loss of sexuality and ovarian dysfunction. Medical treatments should be restorative not cause a whole new set of problems which is what happens after hysterectomy and/or ovary removal (oophorectomy). You are misguided to think that most hysterectomies are necessary. Only about 10% are necessary. However, since most women are (were) told theirs is (was) necessary, many don’t know any better.

Thank you for your article. I’m looking for lawsuits for hysterectomies where all of these post surgery symptoms arise and we weren’t informed.

My walk changed, my laugh changed, I drag my legs around (she removed all of my uterine muscle walls in addition to uterus via laproscopic hysterectomy). My pelvic bone, even a year and a half later, is still sensitive to the touch and the bruising on the pelvic bone was horrible, I read up after they often break the public bone by accident.

I’m looking for a group lawsuit for the exact things you mention in your article. I have the protruding belly, I’m shorter, my knees hurt, I have back pain. I’m only 46 and I walk like an old lady. The surgeon presented the situation to me that this was medically necessary for reoccuring cysts, heavy periods, extreme menstrual cramping, but she disclosed nothing about what happens after. She did share there would be a risk of bladder issues, but nothing about the anatomical changes this makes.

Wendy, I’m sorry you too were not provided with the critical facts about the harm of hysterectomy. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to sue for lack of informed consent probably in large part because it’s difficult to prove. But it seems to be difficult to find lawyers who will take hysterectomy cases even when there are surgical complications. I heard some years ago that Martindale Hubbell was a good website to try to find a medical malpractice lawyer… don’t know if that’s still true. I’ve also heard that you have to carefully screen potential lawyers because you don’t know who has connections with what doctors and hospitals even if they are a plaintiff firm. Nonetheless, I encourage you to pursue your case. Every case brought (even if not successful) is somewhat of a victory for all of us who’ve been unnecessarily harmed.

My wife had a hysterectomy in 1996 . Hers was a necessity as she had a pre cancerous condition in her uterus. Sh was not comfortable with the hormone pills but took them most of the time. Then there was the 4 day estrogen patch. Then she was removed from hormones completely approx 4 years ago. Her demeanor has never been the same since the operation and had has deteriorated a lot in 20 years. She has a lot of the symptoms of bi polar disorder and an explosive temper directed at me for seemingly no reason especially when I am on her side or defending her .She is 63 yoa . I am 62 yoa . I am a retired police officer and have refrained from abandoning , divorcing , or having her arrested as she has assaulted me several times.She needs to get on a mood elevator or a an anti anxiety pill like lorezepam. This is almost unbearable and I have at times been afraid of what she will do. She lies at the drop of a hat and takes joy sometimes in trying to get me to hit her. I am to smart for that and know she is the way she is because of no hormones. She refuses to try any of the aforementioned drugs and gets mean when I suggest this . Any suggestions will be well accepted and carefully considered by me. She also shows the physical deteriorization described in former articles of Hysto patients. Contact me at my email address and I will go from there. Thanks for any help.

Daniel, Thank you for sharing your story. I’m sorry your wife’s hysterectomy has destroyed your relationship. It sounds like you have been a saint through all this.

Personality / demeanor changes are a common complaint after hysterectomy even when the ovaries are not removed. Something that hit home with me was the comment by a renowned ob/gyn on a TV talk show that the uterus is “a woman’s heart center.” She also commented that the mantra at Tufts University when she was chief ob/gyn resident was “there’s no room in the tomb for the womb.” This is evidence of the misogynistic (and greedy) nature of the ob/gyn specialty. Granted there are some ethical gynecologists but they’re in the minority since 90% of hysterectomies are unnecessary.

Your wife obviously needs intervention likely in the form of medication, hormones and/or a mood stabilizer. Since she won’t listen to you, counseling may help. Have you tried or considered couples or individual therapy? Even if she refuses, a therapist may be able to help you determine how to proceed. Would any other family members be able to influence her? I found a bipolar / depression support group after my organs were unnecessarily removed. This may be an avenue of help for you and/or her. It was especially helpful for me until I found an effective route and dose of estrogen. “Filling up my estrogen tank” and maintaining a decent level resolved the depression, extreme irritability, and crushing feelings of being overwhelmed by every little thing. It also helped most of the other symptoms of castration / ovary removal (which oftentimes occur even when the ovaries are not removed). However, it has not completely restored me to my former (intact) self. If your wife can’t or doesn’t want to go the hormone route, there are some very effective meds for bipolar disorder. But, just like hormones, it can take a bit of trial and error to find the correct medication and dose. Lithium is one of the oldest and most effective meds for bipolar and is very inexpensive. Some of the side effects of various psychiatric meds can be serious and permanent so it’s critical that patients do their own research when considering taking one of these drugs. Estrogen has some risks (as well as benefits) too. Anti-anxiety meds such as lorazepam are short-acting and addictive so aren’t a good long-term solution.

I appreciate the insight you have provided regarding this issue. I have been searching both pre and post surgery and this is the first realistic explanation I have read. I know my body very well, eat very healthy and exercise and could not understand why my formerly well toned stomach and hips appear to be that of someone else. I am pleased with the outcome of my hysterectomy, removal of all but my ovaries this past September 2016, with the exception of this problem. I must say that I would have given more thought to how this would affect my mental health had the information been provided. For individuals who maintain a healthy body weight and physique their entire lives, it is a difficult pill to swallow. Thank you again.

Jennifer, It is difficult to get this information. The truth about the figure changes seems to be the “best kept secret” about hysterectomy. I remember noticing years ago how women who’d had hysterectomies seemed to have bellies but some I didn’t know beforehand and others I didn’t recall what they looked like beforehand. But I suspected hysterectomy was at least partly to blame. I dismissed all that when I was led to believe my surgery was necessary. HUGE regret!! 🙁

I had a complete hysterectomy 6 years ago. I came across your post on he internet and was intrigued by the info.
I have complained of hip n back problems and various other things to the doctors and they said no can’t be the hysterectomy.
So for the last 3 years I’ve been on varoiu meds from coedine to morphine and been having spinal injections,and going round in circles. Today my pain management consultant told me my spine didn’t look too bad and couldn’t understand my pain,so he’s sending me to a hip specialist……
I felt bewildered by it all,deep down I’ve always felt my problems were due to my hysterectomy.
Its so so difficult to find anything out about how your body changes afterwards,so I almost cried when I read your article,as i t described exactly how I feel and the pain I’m in. Its just a relief to know I’m not alone. Your articles are brilliant and a great help and I feel I can go to the doctor more confidently now and put my case to them…..
Thankyou…. I now know I’m not going mad!!

Joanne, Thank you for sharing your experience. I’m SO sorry you’ve been left with such awful back and hip pain! It would seem that doctors who’ve been practicing for years would see these problems in their patients who’ve had hysterectomies, at least in the long-term. Medical schools must be lacking in their education on female anatomy (but that’s to the advantage of the hysterectomy industry). A woman, Julie, posted a number of comments on one of my articles and said a chiropractor she saw confirmed that hysterectomy causes back and hip problems. I think she also mentioned that a physiatrist told her the same thing. It’s one of the best kept secrets of gynecologists, as are many other negative effects.

I recently spoke to a couple of people who had success with accupuncture for some joint problems. They had done cortisone shots and physical therapy and the accupuncture fixed their problems. I wonder if it would be of benefit for you.

I’m glad my articles have been helpful. I’m sad that more women don’t find them before their surgeries. 🙁

Thank goodness, I am not going mad after all! I had a full vaginal hysterectomy in December 2014 at 45. Like many here, I had suffered extreme blood loss and clotting which just got worse every month. All my life I was told it would go away when you have a baby. Unfortunately, after 2 heartbreaking rounds of ivf I decided enough was enough. I had no quality of life and chances of having the much desired baby wasn’t going to happen. The hysterectomy itself was the best thing for me, no more pain and discomfort. However, I too have lots of back, hip and leg pain. I noticed it first walking up a hill on holiday about 6 mths after surgery when I literally had to stop, rest, catch my breath. Wasn’t sure what was going on. I am in fairly good shape, slim, eat healthy. Went to doc (useless – did bloods for inflammatory markers, nothing showed up) and hrt clinic advise they have never heard of such pains linked with hysterectomy/hrt treatment. Strangely I feel better knowing I am not on my own!!

I’m 67, had a total (except one ovary) when I was 43. Never returned for any hormones. My body is as slim and trim as ever. You have to just maintain an ideal weight, keep eating right and exercising. Same as for women who never had the surgery.

Gail, People would call me “slim and trim” too. I’ve always been thin and weigh even less than I did pre-hysterectomy but my shape has changed. I have the hysterectomy belly that is a consequence of the skeletal changes that occur from the ligaments that are severed to remove the uterus. I can tell (from all angles) that my upper torso / rib cage has dropped.

I am 65 years old. I had my total hysterectomy 22 years ago at age 43. I had terrible monthly periods with heavy bleeding and pain. I didn’t hesitate to have it done, as I was not planning more children. My sex life has never been better. No worries, no pain, I have never ever been sorry that I hadvit done. I know its not the same for everyone, but it has been the best decision for myself.

Kathy, I’m glad you are happy with your decision. Unfortunately, gynecologists do treat the uterus as if it’s only for having babies but it’s needed our whole lives. I’m curious what prompted you to go in search of articles on hysterectomy. Are you having some of the problems that crop up over the years? Or wondering why your figure has changed? If I was 100% happy with mine, I wouldn’t be searching for articles.

To WS
I too am having bowel problems after my surgery. Just because you don’t have them does not mean a thing as everyone is different. You think you know it all. Just wait. Something is going to happen to you and we will be telling you to go search those articles!

Thank you for a little bit of positivity.
I had a radical hysterectomy 3 days ago.
After reading the replys on this site….omgoodness!!! I am so scared I made the wrong decision.
Your reply gave me a little bit of hope. A little is better than none at all. I thank you for that.❤

I had a complete hysterectomy four years ago, at the age of 28 (they left one ovary, for hormone production, but removed everything else, including Fallopian tubes). I had been extremely anemic for years, due to blood loss during my periods, and my hemoglobin dropped dangerously. I had so much inflammation that every time I sat down, it felt like I had been punched in the abdomen. I would go through the huge over night pads in twenty minutes (they would literally overflow with blood in 20 minutes) and my periods would last for two weeks. I would pass blood clots the size of baseballs. For the first week of my period each month, I couldn’t even go to the grocery store, because walking around, even for 15 minutes, would make me bleed out of a pad. I couldn’t go out, couldn’t go on weekend trips, let alone a week-long vacation, couldn’t have an intimate relationship with my husband, couldn’t go to they gym or work out at home. During the last six months before my hysterectomy, I was on narcotic pain medication for the cramps (and I’m a pretty tough girl…I’ve stepped on hot coals before with bare feet (by accident…long and funny story) and have had spinal taps done, all without wincing). Since my hysterectomy, I feel like I’m finally living! No pain! No anemia! I can go places, do things, hike, bike, run, be an active mother to my three kids and I’m not trapped by pain, blood and worry any more. I haven’t had many physical changes at all, except for a blessed cessation of the pain and anxiety. Having a hysterectomy was the best thing ever, (for me, anyway). I’d do it again in a heartbeat!

DMH, I’m sorry your problems were so severe… that does sound awful! Were you ever tested for a bleeding / clotting disorder? One of the most common ones is von Willebrand Disease. It seems many gynecologists assume all heavy menstrual bleeding is a gynecologic “abnormality” and fail to test for a bleeding disorder.

While it’s true that some women’s problems are severe enough that hysterectomy is worth the trade-offs, the majority of women don’t seem to feel this way. And those who may be relieved in the short term feel differently years down the road as problems crop up. For many women, less drastic treatments are effective or at least worth a try.

I had a partial hysterectomy (cervix still in place), with oopherectomy, all performed laparoscopically, in 2010 due to Stage IV endometriosis and ovarian cysts. My hemoglobin dropped significantly, I was losing weight (thought I had cancer), I had no energy at all (due to the chronic anemia), and all of that was putting strain on my heart and lungs. I have gained a lot of weight (for reasons that may or may not be hormonal, including stress hormones), and I still have some pain and difficulties with my GI system, but I’m glad I had the surgery because of the positive change in my overall health.

While it’s good to identify the problems listed in this article, you have to balance the alternatives. Hysterectomy may be the best choice after weighing all other options, and while there are changes that go along with the surgery, it may be better to deal with those skeletal and other changes than to have your pelvic organs decaying inside your body.

HysterSister, I’m sorry your gynecologic problems led to hysterectomy and you still have some pain and GI difficulties. Unfortunately, hysterectomy (with or without ovary removal) is not a cure for endometriosis even though many women are led to believe otherwise. While it’s true that some women’s problems are severe enough that hysterectomy is worth the trade-offs, the majority of women don’t seem to feel this way.

I had a hysterectomy in March of 2015. Ovaries still intact. Everything else gone. I will regret it for the rest of my life. My issues could have been handled without a hysterectomy. I did not learn this until after the surgery. My body shape has completely changed! I am livid with the doctor. Do you know of ANYTHING at all as far as specific exercises or chiropractic care that will help? I am so depressed. I only wish I would have read this information before I had this done.

Karen, I know how you feel and I’m sorry you were also a victim of this despicable scam! The changes to my figure have been just as devastating as the rapid aging from the loss of my ovaries! Hysterectomy is the biggest scam ever! I will never trust any medical professional again. Our legislators don’t even care as you can see here – http://www.gynreform.com/.

I’ve read that an inversion table or chair may be helpful for the collapsed / degenerating spine. But there are risks and some people are not good candidates. A chair is supposed to be easier and safer to use than a table. Standard sit-ups could be helpful to keep your abs toned.

Hi my name is Mariah and hearing your guys’s stories breaks my heart I also had a hysterectomy in 2000 and has suffered many a thing and if I could do it all again I would never of done it at the time when I did it I have been bleeding for 3 months they said I had a tumor the size of a grapefruit and after that and before that I had gotten an accident because I was so anemic I fell asleep behind the wheel and hit a car so at that point I decided to do the hysterectomy which I wish that I would of researched it better before I did it I am now 62 I had this done in 2000 and all most 62 not quite but I have a lot of skeletal and pelvic issues since which is completely knock me down where my back goes out and I cannot walk the last episode I ended up in the hospital couldn’t walk had to be carried out even after they gave me an injection was not able to walk it took me three months recovery time so when I finally recovered they gave me the excuse to do ab exercises like you show right here I have Faithfully been doing them and just about a week ago I had another episode so I have found out that I’m starting to get spinosus and they said scoliosis on top of it my heart goes out to all of you if I can help somebody by telling them not to do something like this but to find every other way out of it please do your research they don’t tell you everything that you’re going to experience afterwards so you’re like blind Lee going in and then finding out after I got kidney stones I had veginal dryness I thought I was going to go crazy hormonal wise never told me anything about any of that stuff and the hormones that they want inject you with a lot of them are made out of horse urine which is could kill you in itself I don’t know about now but at the time that’s what it was so just to let you guys know I wish you guys all well and I hope that you can find some kind of healing somewhere

Mariah, Your experience is also heart-breaking! How awful that your back goes out to the point of not being able to walk and having to be hospitalized. I am almost 11 years post hysterectomy and my back has been bothering me more and more.

Clearly, these surgeons that remove women’s organs unnecessarily are the scum of the medical profession. I’m so discouraged and frustrated by the lack of interest in this issue. They keep coming out with studies of the harm of ovary removal yet these surgeons continue removing women’s ovaries. And just as disturbing is that all these studies imply that hysterectomy (with ovary preservation) is not destructive. It is! They’re all protecting their revenue streams since these surgeries are so lucrative for all specialties!

My daughter has fibroid tumors on the outside of her uterus. She is 45 and the tumor makes her look 5 months pregnant. The only options given by her doctor are hysterectomy or cutting of the blood flow through an artery using plastic foam. It all sounds like hell. Is there no rational treatment for uterine tumors? I am very worried. Also, is there any connection to parasites and tumors?

Kathy, A doctor with good myomectomy skills should be able to remove just her fibroids leaving her uterus intact. If she decides to go this route and absolutely does not want any organs removed, she may need to revise the surgical consent form accordingly. It seems to be standard for Gynecology consent forms to be open ended leaving it to the discretion of the surgeon to remove organs. She will want to revise the form to make it clear that organs cannot be removed. She will want the surgeon to sign off on her changes and keep a copy for herself. She will want this all completed days before surgery. I’ve read a number of stories of women going into the OR for a myomectomy only to end up with a hysterectomy.

If you’ve ever tried to find the perfect pair of jeans, you know that womens’ bodies vary alot! I had a total hysterectomy after being diagnosed with endometrial cancer about a year and a half ago. Took EVERYTHING out along with a bunch of lymph nodes so I know the experience of having your lower abdomen drastically changed. I am happy to say I have not experienced the symtoms and body changes WS describes. It may just be my body type, my genetics, or my attitude but I think it has more to do with my surgeon.

I think WS should question the skill of her surgeon (and gynocologist if different). I would advise women to be absolutely sure of the choice to have any surgery, especially hysterectomy, and then you need to investigate whether you have the best surgeon who does the least invasive surgery.. you don’t get a do-over, and you don’t want fix-it surgeries afterward. Being diagnosed with cancer, as I was, tempts women to go with the first solutions offered, but you do not need to do that!! Investigate options and doctors and get extra opinions. Once you feel comfortable with the decision and the surgeon, take care of your life and your body and love it everyday. If you’re struggling with a not-so-good outcome, continue to seek the best medical advice, and if you are struggling with depression, find a good therapist to help you through it. You deserve to take care of your mental health too!!

I am so happy to read your post! I had a radical hysterectomy, lymph nodes removed due to cervical cancer just 12 weeks ago. Reading all this stuff on the internet about how badly my body is going to change brings tears to my eyes. Your story gives hope! I have always been proud of my figure and now all I’ve read is how I’m going to be short and fat with no curve.
So far, after 12 weeks I have only noticed one change. I used to have a deep curve to my lower back with a round back end :o) That is no more. My rear is deflated and no curve to my lower back. Now i’m going to drastically change my diet (scared of cancer coming back someplace else) and hit the gym to try to keep any other changes from happening

Hi Becky,
I also had a radical hysterectomy due to ovarian cancer in 2010. Still recovering. I have found some days are good, others not so good. My body changes haven’t been that bad except for the internal ones. The adhesions are pretty painful, so please try not to overdo it with the exercise, just take it slow. Always speak with your Doctor about your diet specially if you have adhesions(scar tissue). Wishing you all the best in good health. Take care.

At 18 months post-op, the changes to my figure were very subtle but gradually worsened over time. Every woman I know who’s had a hysterectomy has experienced these same changes to her figure. So I don’t think surgeons’ skills, or lack thereof, have anything to do with it. I don’t know how attitude could have anything to do with it. It’s an anatomical fact… cutting the pelvic support structures destroys pelvic skeletal integrity.

Of course, for the minority of women like you who truly need a hysterectomy, this information is moot. But for the majority who undergo hysterectomy unnecessarily, it’s a travesty that they are not told about the many life long functions of the uterus (and ovaries) so they can make an informed decision.

Just had a complete hysterectomy done laparoscopically due to cancer diagnosis and I wish I had not seen this site because you terrifying me. However having cancer is terrifying as well. I’m going to have to deal with whatever comes but I’m hoping thru careful diet, excercise I can fight some of this. I don’t know – feeling scared

Nance, I’m sorry for your cancer diagnosis! Less than 10% of hysterectomies are done for cancer. I was told I may have ovarian cancer. But the frozen section showed it was merely a benign cyst yet my surgeon removed my organs anyway. Numerous studies show that this does more harm than good when done for benign conditions and that this practice should stop for women without cancer or at high risk for cancer.

The anatomical and skeletal changes affect not only our figures but the function of the bladder and bowel and the integrity / health of the spine, hips and rib cage.

Lily, I’m sorry for your cancer diagnosis! Less than 10% of hysterectomies are done for cancer. It can certainly be terrifying and depressing to discover the after effects of hysterectomy. I was told I may have ovarian cancer. But the frozen section showed it was merely a benign cyst yet my surgeon removed my organs anyway. Numerous studies show that this does more harm than good when done for benign conditions and that this practice should stop for women without cancer or at high risk for cancer.

Lily,
Sorry for your diagnosis. Try not to be scared. We all go through it. Have a good cry and think about yourself and your health. I found that staying positive has helped as well as eating a good diet, simple exercise and a good support network.. There is a lot to deal with post surgery, physically and mentally. What I did was write down how I felt each day and what was happening and placed the positive things for each day on a list. It’s nice to look back and see what you have been through and how strong you become, both physically and mentally. And I found it helped to write things down also to get it out of my system. I wish you all the best with your health.

I am 4 months after hysterectomy. I still have both ovaries as I did not want to do hormonal supplements either. The pain during periods heavy bleeding and pain during sex was the last straw for me. My doctor was informative and guided me through the process. With that being said I didn’t know about the structural damage that it causes. I was aware of the “normal changes” prolased bladder changes in sexual appetite. Weigh gain was a possibility ect. But had I known that 4 months after I would still have some kind of pain, I would have chosen to push through what I had before. I am aware not all women have the symptoms many have on this site. But in reading posts from other women I know I am not alone. I am a 35 year old feeling like I am a 90 year old. My lower back is stiff and pain is horrendous compared to what I had before. I can’t sir I can’t stand and my working out is stopped completely. I don’t have the feeling of loss or the feeling that my life has ended because I can’t procreate anymore. What I do have is a life where I can’t function as I did before. Sex yup still painful even more so than before days after I hurt, which isn’t normal don’t care what doctor tells me that it is. I have seen many doctors since. They all disregard my symptoms and make it seem that I am creating them to get attention or pain medication. Which I much rather not do. But if it gets me back to my life then so be it. Majority of the time I take tylenol with the help of tramadol in the morning and at night. I have 2 boys that I can’t run and play with because of the pain my family is suffering do to the fact I am no longer myself. I am a shell of what I used to be. I was active and playful outside all the time. Riding bikes hiking going for walks even through the pain I was in before. I managed but now I can’t manage to sit in the car for long periods of time. I see a nurologist to see if there is “another issue” because they say this is not from the surgery. The has to be something else. I manage to do stretches and yoga. But the running 5 miles bike ride forget it. Not happening. I don’t blame my doctor by any means. I am a smart women that can do the research, I did for months but didn’t seem to find this site before hand. I talked to other women. Most with positive results. I believe it’s the individual and their own results from such a procedure. In time my body my adjust and I will get back to the old me. I push for her everyday and I won’t give up until I find the one dr to figure out what and where it all went wrong. I have reached out beyond my own town to see if I can get an unbiased opinion. I hope you all find peace even if it’s only moments of a day.

Leigh,
I’m sorry you’re in worse pain than before your hysterectomy. Did your gynecologist diagnose the cause of your pain prior to your surgery? Without a diagnosis, it’s impossible to know if the treatment (hysterectomy) will fix the problem (aside from the end of bleeding). Some women even end up having hysterectomies for what ended up being a bladder problem (such as Interstitial Cystitis) or bowel problem (such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome). Do you maybe have endometriosis for which there is no cure? Of course, chronic pain after surgery can be caused by other things too such as nerve damage and adhesions.

I hope you can figure out the cause of this pain and get appropriate treatment!

When I got to your comments stating “…I am a 35 year old feeling like I am a 90 year old. My lower back is stiff and pain is horrendous compared to what I had before. I can’t sir I can’t stand…” it sounds like what I’ve felt for the past year more so after my hysterectomy.

I just had a MRI performed; the results found that I have severe spinal stenosis with impinged nerve root on my right side. I’ve suffered for months now with extreme stiffness and pain especially after I lie down. I’ve recently tried to do flexion exercises to help stretch the muscles. It is helping a tiny bit only.

I wish we could find some studies or health professionals to corroborate women’s complaints of back, hip and leg problems after hysterectomy. Once people realize the structural roles of the pelvic uterine ligaments, it makes sense that skeletal integrity is lost. One woman, Julie, commented here that a physical therapist and chiropractor explained how hysterectomy destroys the musculoskeletal system.

I wish it could happen where studies would be done & take women seriously about their post op complaints. But I truly feel that there is a conspiracy in this country amongst the medical community to keep patients ignorant. For instance, I had an epidural during childbirth, experienced low back pains over the years including sciatica. But when I asked my PCP’s if there’s a connection all admit that there is no connection. However, I’d read that a British study concluded there is a definite relation between low back pains and epidurals.

And I do think there is a relation between skeletal changes and hysterectomies. Otherwise, there would not be so many women complaining of post surgery back, leg, and hip pains! My own gynecologist/surgeon at my second post op exam said that that ugly pouch I developed above my incision was actually my fault. Meaning that I had a big stomach already. Yes. My stomach was not flat, but it was not that round either. It developed after the hysterectomy, and I still have the ugly pouch.

My PCP has referred me to a spine surgeon. Mind you I told her adamantly that I do not want to take any surgery on my back! Physical therapy, some meds, fine. But no surgery. Maybe it’s to keep the spine surgeon well-padded. But it is my body, my decision.

Cheryl, I’m with you 100%! There’s no such thing as “informed consent” in the medical and pharmaceutical industry. And the Gynecology specialty is probably the worst since they continue doing these surgeries despite numerous studies over the last century showing the harm. They are certainly not following evidence based medicine!

I failed to mention in my previous post that the HERS Foundation said that when engineers see female anatomy diagrams, it makes sense to them that hysterectomy destroys the skeletal structure. You can also see it in our altered figures, what some women call “the boxy body” (the absence of a waist, the buffer between the hips and rib cage).

After surgery, my gyn dismissed my complaint of a bulge on one side of my abdomen. Not only is it distressing but it may partly explain why I developed severe bowel problems that have never resolved. That plus all the other nightmare problems were also likely the reason his nurse hung up on me when I called the office around 4 months post-op (patient abandonment). And I’d been his patient for 20 years.

I understand your desire to avoid back surgery! I can’t even bring myself to do preventive tests. Thankfully, my PCP is pretty understanding. I hope you can get relief from non-surgical treatment!

Hi, just as an update in case this may be of some help to others my PCP prescribed Duloxetine (brand name Cymbalta). Duloxetine was initially used for depression/anxiety then docs found that it helped patients with nerve pains like mine.

So it’s been 2 months I’ve been on a very low dose (20 mg. once daily) & it has helped with that irritating and debilitating nerve pain going down my lower back to my legs. Had just a bit of minor side effects the first month like nausea and lack of appetite. But it’s all gone now.

I still need to take the occasional Naproxen tablet, but it’s not like before where I depended on Naproxen more.

Again this is just a FYI for others if diagnosed with spinal stenosis and are interested.

This makes me sad to read these stories. I am in unbareable pain most of the month which has progressively gotten worse over the past 12 months. This is due to adenomyosis and my bladder neck which has fallen. I get constant infections, can not play sport or do anything remotely active as I bleed and experience pain. I can’t have relations with my husband as normal because of the pain. Hysterectomy is my only chance as I have tried all other non invasive methods. I am sorry that I came across this site as while I don’t have cancer, it does not mean that a hysterectomy is not a necessary option. Your comments make all hysterectomies sound like impending doom when for some of us, it is our only hope…

Marcia, Yes, unfortunately, some women are between “a rock and a hard place” and hysterectomy is pretty much their only option. I’m sorry that you may be in that position. I have read of some gynecologists who are able to remove pockets of adenomyosis (sort of like fibroids can be removed via myomectomy) giving women the relief they need. Best of luck to you in getting relief!

I had a lavh in October 2015 as my womb was being pushed down through the weight of a very large fibroid on the top of it,this resulted in my needing to urinate more often and leaking urine during sex,my periods caused heavy bleeding and a dragging feeling below when walking and standing for long periods.After my hysterectomy it took a long time to feel anywhere near back to normal,I needed pelvic floor therapy to tighten my vagina which i am still attending and I now take oral hrt as I am 53.I must say that on balance I am now feeling so much better than before my op,I have had no problems with urination or my bowels and sex is the same as before only now I need a little bit of extra lubrication which is no problem and yes my orgasms are exactly the same as before the op.The only difference I have noticed is that I now have a small pouch below my navel which I accept will never go but to me it is a small price to pay to feel amazing.I have read WS ‘s posts and they dismay me,I think I would be afraid to have the op after reading all the negative points made , ladies please do not be afraid it has been the best decision I ever made.

I agree there are tons of other sites especially the hyster sisters where there are hundreds of success stories and women who were so greatful and relieved to have a hysterectomy done. While there are many people who have trouble since the surgery there are just as many with no problems at all.

Toni,
You don’t get the full picture on Hystersisters and some other sites because they censor posts. They will remove parts of posts and ban some members. I know multiple women who have been banned from that site. And they have gotten sneaky about it. They will let you login and the site will work as normal (you can post and see your previous posts) but when you aren’t logged in, all your posts are invisible so no one else can see them.

Marcia,
I had total hysterectomy 6 weeks ago, leaving my ovaries. I had adenomyosis. I had terribly painful monthly cycles, but worse than that was the cyclical back pain I was experiencing. Some months I was unable to drive, cook dinner, exercise or do anything normal. I am not a complainer. I have a husband, 6 kids and a very busy, active life. I had exhausted all options: chiropractor, back MRI, birth control pills, progesterone, etc over the last 4 years. My OBGYN thought a bundle of nerves was causing all my back pain. I went ahead with the hysterectomy. I thought I was healing fine and had no back pain. This week the back pain came on and I am so frustrated. I don’t regret having the hysterectomy. I think it was the right option given the adenomyosis. I have my 6 weeks post-op appointment with her tomorrow. I am praying she will help me find answers to this back pain that limits everything!

Hello I am 3wks after a hysterectomy..was diagnosed with the same thing as you. You’re the first person I’ve seen that put that on there my doctor told me that if I didn’t have hysterectomy I would have never stopped bleeding because of that diagnosis with the uterus. Had a full hysterectomy and she said my ovaries were dried up and I was post-menopausal but I was still bleeding so I’m so glad I had it done. The tough thing with that is there’s no way to know that till after your uterus is out so if I were kept waiting and waiting to have my change of life to happen it never would have for me cuz of the issue in my uterus hopefully no issues to come in the future but as of now I’m glad I did what I did because I couldn’t have lived with bleeding for the rest of my life like that.

Hi..may I suggest a spinal doctor and nerve damage..I understand your pain as I am about to have the same hysterectomy because a cop assaulted my body..I’m gonna really miss being me as a whole but I have to keep my strength and faith for a full recovery.. God Bless

Hi I’ve had a hysterectomy in 2001 only my uterus was removed due to fibroids. my dr wanted to do the first hysterectomy when i was only 25 and i stalled for a few years as i do believe we had everything for a reason. Finally i gave in due to excessive bleeder to the point of not being able to leave the house. But since my surgery i’ve suffered with chronic pain in all my muscles and joints. I too feel 70 years old in my early 50s. i miss playing with my grandchildren. occassionaly i get on advil and get down on the floor anyways and play. then when i’m about aching enough i crawl to the coffee table to work my way up slowly. i love to do things, hiking, walking, quaking, fishing. i still force myself to go but it’s like i have to pay when i’m done. sometime for days! my pain is all muscles and joints. i’ve been checked for fibromyalgia and arthritis both were negative. i have been on HRT for servers years now. I’m going back to my dr because talking to you ladies has mad me realize we need to try diagnose our own bodies. i’m a need to know person, don’t just give me a prescription for pain killers.
Thx for all your information. Hope you all find answers soon😊

I had my hysterectomy Dec 9, 2015. This after after the first surgery in 2001 where fibroids were discovered and plagued me until last year. From 2011- 2013 I have surgeries to manage the fibroids, unfortunately, I am left with adhesions from 2011-2013 surgeries.

So how do I feel since my hysterectomy, mostly relieved. I have another unerlying health issue which likely contributed to the formation of adhesions. However, it did allow me to mostly get my life and body back.

I exercise regular with a focus on my core, due to the adhesions that ‘packed’ (this is what the doctor said) my pelvis, my lymph flow was greatly impeded, I gained roughly 40 lbs of which wasn’t mostly fat. At the time I didn’t realize is wasn’t fat so I spent time exercising like crazy only to loose maybe 10lbs.

The day after my release which was two days after the surgery I realized I had ‘shrunk’ overnight. The fat rolls that appeared from nowhere where gone, my facial definition returned and I could see the results of exercise.

The bad from the surgery was of course the emotional feelings of loose. I still have one ovary. Since I have adhesions, it’s taken longer for my pelvic organs to resettle. I had two internal infections, the antibotics they gave me destroyed my intestinal flora. I’ve seen considerable time trying to get my flora restored sufficiently.

I found this site because I was curious about skeletal changes. Just yesterday, I went to my chiropractor to have an adjustment given it’s been almost a year and I”m mostly settled inside. Sure enough, she did tell me my pelvis was lopsided. It was an easy adjustment and I feel even better.

I’m glad I had the surgery because it’s mostly given me my life back. However, it took and will continue to take lots of patience, commitment to fitness, self- awareness and experimenting to remain healthy. No one thing helped me it was multiple types of treatments to restore intestinal flora, reduce inflammation, boost immunity, stretch and strengthen core muscles, encourage nerve regeneration.

Thank you for sharing your experience. I’m sorry you suffered for so long and ended up in the same boat as many here.

I have also had bowel problems since my hysterectomy. I suspect part of the problem was the prophylactic antibiotics given but I also wonder if I acquired a low level infection of some sort because I had severe diarrhea for close to a year post-op. My bowels have never returned to normal and it’s been 10 years since surgery. However, permanent changes in bowel habits are common after hysterectomy due to displacement of the bowel as well as adhesions that develop in 93% of abdominal surgeries. Most women seem to complain of constipation. Adhesions can cause serious problems in the short or long-term including small bowel obstruction, a medical emergency. I know someone who had a bowel obstruction decades after her only abdominal surgery, appendectomy.

Your “emotional feelings of loss” may be at least partly due to the hormonal changes. Complete ovarian failure or impaired ovarian function are common once the uterus is removed and occurs even more so when only one ovary remains.

Unfortunately, many of the adverse effects of hysterectomy occur in the long-term and can worsen as time goes on. It’s a shame that women are not given the necessary information to make a truly informed decision about this life-altering surgery.

I had a hysterectomy 10 years ago they took out my ovaries and my uterus. I still have my cervix. They did this laparoscopic. They did not tack up my bladder. Now I am having problems with my bladder. I also have pain in my lower back that goes down my legs to the back of my knees. I have frequent urination. I cough I owe. I sneeze I pee.i laugh i per. I have joint pain also. So what can be done to have my bladder tacked up now??? Please help me.

Jennifer,
I’m sorry you’re suffering from what sounds like a prolapsed bladder. Estrogen deficiency can also cause problems with bladder control so if you are not using estrogen (vaginally or systemically) that may be a contributing factor. Even without bladder prolapse, many women suffer with lower back pain after hysterectomy due to the skeletal changes.

Have you had an exam to confirm that this is prolapse? A pessary is a device that can be inserted to hold the bladder in place. Since you still have your cervix, that may be an option… not sure how well they work for women who don’t have their cervix. There are many different types and they need to be properly fitted for comfort and utility. Surgery is another option but of course has a number of risks, one being the problems associated with mesh if the surgeon uses mesh. So you would want to thoroughly research prolapse surgery before going that route. A urogynecologist is typically the specialty that does prolapse surgery. It seems any urogyn or gyn would be able to fit you for a pessary but even your primary care doctor probably could. Keep in mind that surgery is the much more profitable treatment so a urogyn or gyn may pressure you into doing that versus the pessary. This is an excellent resource about pessaries – http://www.aafp.org/afp/2000/0501/p2719.html.

Best of luck in getting this addressed! Please post back and let us know what you end up doing and how well it works.

I do have to chime in here. Sometimes it is necessary. My surgeon and I discussed fully before surgery. If the basketball sized tumor attached to my right ovary was clean, everything else stays. If cancer it had to go. He didn’t think it was and testing showed it shouldn’t have been. I drew short straw and it was. He spent 4 hrs in my belly removing affected tissue and doing biopsies.

I am 5 weeks post op and feel better than I have in a long time. Sure I have some pain and twinges and aches but I just had very major surgery. I went back to work 17 days after but will be on lifting restrictions till 6 weeks. I have cancer. There was no other option. The advice I give is before you do anything RESEARCH YOUR DOCTOR. Check the ranking boards, look for bad reviews on him/her or their staff. Be willing to travel out of town for a better facility or surgeon. I had to drive 3 hrs and put my family in a hotel for 5 days.

Do everything in your power to prepare before. Exercise muscles down there before and after. Everyone is not going to recover the same but I am proof it can happen and not be horrible.

Currently working with medical team to determine path forward treatment. I know there will be challenges but I have no choice but to fight.

Grinchy,
I’m sorry for your cancer diagnosis! I hope your prognosis is excellent and any additional treatment is well tolerated. There is no doubt that hysterectomy and/or oophorectomy are sometimes necessary such as for a cancer diagnosis.

I’m glad you’re doing well at 5 weeks post op. This article is more about the long-term effects, not so much the surgical recovery.

Although it’s important to research doctors and hospitals, it can be difficult to get “full disclosure.” Oftentimes, the vital information is not in the public domain. (It’s more important to know if a doctor unnecessarily removes organs or is an incompetent surgeon than if he/she runs on time and has a good bedside manner.) Many of the doctor rating websites as well as state medical boards do not disclose malpractice cases even when found in favor of the plaintiff / patient. Cases that are settled usually involve nondisclosure clauses so plaintiffs can’t even talk about it. The state medical boards seldom discipline doctors. They usually have to commit a crime such as sexual abuse, illegal drug use, Medicare or Medicaid fraud for the boards to mete out any disciplinary action. And even then any action is typically minor. Some doctors have reputation managers that monitor the web for reviews and can sometimes get negative reviews removed. So it can be difficult for the public to get comprehensive information which is a shame.

I’m 12 weeks post op, partial hysterectomy with both ovaries remaining. I’m absolutely miserable. I’m 44 and had the surgery due to heavy, painful periods after having twins 9 years ago. Since the surgery I’m experiencing severe insomnia, hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, have no sex drive, aches and pains in every joint, and I’m an emotional basket case. Anxiety attacks are daily, AND now I’m also getting migraines weekly. Good grief!! Wish I had done my research before electing to have this surgery. What should I do? What are my options? Hormone levels must be out of balance? I’m so depressed and feel like I’m 80 years old. I’ve been reading all of these comments and it brings tears to my eyes.. I know I’m not alone.
Any ideas or suggestions for relief? I want to move to Alaska so I don’t sweat 24/7.

Erica, I’m sorry you also fell victim to this destructive surgery. It sickens me each time I hear another woman’s story. 🙁 It certainly sounds like your ovaries have shut down or aren’t functioning properly. Estrogen may help your symptoms. Best of luck to you in moving forward from this awful situation and betrayal by your doctor!

Same is happening with me even I’m having body pains depression hot flashes whole time in ac but still swetting.a very bad experience of hystectomy.feel of dying. Cudnt understand what to do.I’m 40 but feel of 60

Surbhi, I’m sorry you are suffering these awful effects! Although hormones are not a cure-all, they can help with symptoms and make life more manageable and worth living. Of course, there are some risks but also some benefits. So each woman needs to decide for herself if she wants to go that route. Best of luck to you in finding something that helps!

Typically these symptoms don’t last very long. Several months is normal. Your body goes into a state of shock and your hormones need time to regulate. I talk to women daily about hysterectomies, I’ve also had one, and you’re not alone. Also know that there is misinformation in this article that I have read above about your skeletal structure changing. You just had major surgery. Talk with your Dr about your concerns but understand that you are still healing. It can take a year to heal from this surgery even if you do not still feel the actual pain.

Melanie,
It’s unclear which symptoms you’re saying “don’t last long.” Hysterectomy with or without ovary removal causes life long damage to a woman’s body and health in a number of ways.

The skeletal changes are an inevitable effect but do not happen overnight. The four sets of ligaments that anchor the uterus are also the support structures / anchors for the pelvis. They keep the spine, hips and rib cage where they belong. So everything collapses when those ligaments are severed. This is difficult to grasp for women to grasp until it starts happening to them… seeing is believing.

I’m sorry that you also had a hysterectomy and are suffering to a degree that you went in search of information.

Yes. I agree. The alarmist, neagative comments are not helpful. Thirteen days ago, i had a Davinci hyst, keeping one healthy ovary. The ANESTHESIA seemed harsh to me. It’s an amazing procedure, but the gas can get in neck and shoulders. I have an infection which is causing aches when ibuprofen wears off.
I’m 56years. Still have cycles and PMS, often turning to hemoragoing. Have been trying to manage. Just get through menopause, progesterone worked for a while. I had an ablation in the spring. Worked great for 3 months. Aiso, have endometriosis.
What, exactly would you have had me to do? Please share some wisdom on how this should have been treated.

Cindy, I’m sorry you were dealing with dysfunctional bleeding. It’s too bad the ablation didn’t work. It also seems to be an “oversold” procedure and women oftentimes aren’t told all the risks as detailed in another one of my articles. However, those risks are lower in women who are close to menopause.

Non-hormonal or hormonal medication is typically the first line of treatment for dysfunctional bleeding. Many women are given birth control which of course doesn’t always work and has its own set of risks. But there’s a non-hormonal medication tranexamic acid (Lysteda) that has been proven to be quite effective but it seems is rarely suggested by gynecologists.

Many of the negative effects of hysterectomy (as well as ablation) occur in the long-term. It’s deeply troubling that gynecologists do not divulge the facts about these effects. And it’s a shame women don’t discover them until after their surgeries.

I had a hysterectomy and the ovaries removed when i was thirty due to heavy periods,fibroids ,pmt and everything else. I had two daughters and did not want any more children due to post natal depression. It took a year for everything to get better and i was given oestrogen replacement therapy which stopped me from having menopausal symptoms. I believe for me it was worth it as i no longer had to endure heavy bleeding every month and it was a relief. I had a better quality of life and sexually there were no problems at all infact it was better as i was on HRT . I am now 58 and have no regrets about doing it. We are all humans and no one reacts the same to surgery,it is good to be well informed about the benefits instead of the negatives .

I had cervical cancer and prolapsed bladder and uterus whicj caused my vaginal walls to fall and have to be rebuilt. Im 11 weeks post op of my hysterectomy. My doctor didnt tell me any possible symptoms or about hormones. He said id have a brand new vagina and be cancer free and id feel like a brand new person. Omg! Exactly the opposite has happened for me so far. I know its sad and awful to say but at this point, i wish i wouldve never had the surgery even if it meant keeping the cancer. Im a 34 year old woman that feels like im 90 years old. I have constant pain in my abdomen, rectum, and legs. I wasnt told about the hormones or given any hormone replacement therapy because my doctor doesnt believe in it. I have hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, irritability, severe depression, mood swings, plus im bipolar and i have a nerve disorder that causes panic and anxiety attacks. I hate the new vagina he built. 3/4 of my vagina has no feeling. I finally just figured out my vagina completely and what i liked and didnt during sex and what i wanted and now was loving it. Now i feel like ive been robbed of my vagina and been given this half fake thing the dr calls a vagina cuz hardly no feeling is there and i have to i guess spend the next 20 years trying to figure this thing out. My sex life, relationship with my husband has all been affected by this horrible surgery. My husband does love my new vagina by the way. I feel like my life is over. Im changing and developing new symptoms all the time. My husband is saying ive changed since my surgery. I cry alot and my feelings get hurt very easily. I cant do anything right. I fear i may lose my husband and with losing myself like i have due to this whole experience of the surgery, its just too much to bear. I feel like nothing and a no body. I dont feel like a woman anymore. I feel like im a disappointment to everyone and dont know how im goung to live the rest of my life like this.

Sheli, I’m sorry you’re suffering all these negative effects! I can certainly empathize! I was told I may have ovarian cancer. Even though the frozen section done while I was in the operating room proved I did not, my gyn removed all my organs anyway. (I have no family history of ovarian cancer.)

The decision to take hormones is a personal one. I chose / choose to take them because I could not function without them. It did take some time though to find the right one for me.

I wish you the best in getting symptom relief and moving on with your life. I know all too well how hard it is to see light at the end of the tunnel.

Erica, get some HRT asap. I was experiencing the same symptoms as you, I felt like I was going crazy. Finally started in HRT and take ambien to sleep and probably will for the rest of my life… I’m ok with that as I need to sleep.
Please know your not alone and know there is help.

I’m not sure what to do right now. I had a full hyseteretomy when they found cancer within a basketball sized fibroid/tumor that blew up one of my ovaries. I learned of it when I went to the ER. They sent me to see a gyn oncologist the following Monday morning. There is no cancer within my family history, and the doctor even noted that the cancer could have been from waste developed within the tumor. However, he said I needed to get a hysterectomy. This happened in 2014. Now, I have pain in the area when I wake up in the mornings. I don’t want to continue to see this doctor after all that has happened, but I have to go back for cancer screenings. I’m not sure what to do. I found your site after doing some research on my pain.

Nelly, I’m sorry for your cancer diagnosis as well as this pain you’re having. If you don’t like or trust the oncologist who did your hysterectomy, hopefully, you can find another one to get this checked out. It could be any number of things besides cancer. Best of luck to you!

I happy I found your page. I am 8 weeks post-op from a radical hysterectomy with an oophrectomy. Having read a lot of the comments I do feel like so many issues are not discussed on diascharge fro the hospital. I was told by the surgeon that my headaches are not related. Pain management is like pulling teeth meaning don’t ask. I thought I would be so much better by now and seemed to have hit a wall.I saw my surgeon at 6 weeks post-op and was told how well I was healing and didn’t need to come back, to go see my primary for a wellness chec as my BP was elevated.

My surgery was emeregency and I probably needed it, but was not prepaired for how difficult the recovery is.
And reading these comments is very helpful navigating these at times difficult days. I guess it’s good to know I’m not imagining things.
I wish doctors would at least just admit that these issues exist and are related to surgery instead of just go home be happy.I might add that I am 58 yo and maybe just not bouncing back like a younger person may.

Cindy, I’m sorry you’re having a difficult time and that your doctor has been dismissive! Headaches are actually quite common due to the loss of hormones. It really is a travesty that gynecologists fail to inform their patients of the fall-out from female organ removal especially since so few of these surgeries are necessary. I was told mine was necessary but my pathology report proved otherwise. Another myth is that women who’ve gone through menopause won’t experience the negative effects. But our ovaries produce hormones our whole lives so of course post-menopausal women will also experience symptoms if their ovaries are removed.

Cindy, That’s a common lament “I wish I had known / been informed.” It’s the Gynecology specialty’s modus operandi to not inform and even misinform women (including cancer scare tactics) because hysterectomies and oophorectomies are so profitable. They don’t even require fibroid removal surgeries (myomectomy) as part of gyn training yet each gyn resident must do a MINIMUM of 70 hysterectomies. And the insurance companies seem to not ask any questions when approving these surgeries even though they know they’re rarely necessary. Sorry for the rant!

Yea, I was in a lot of pain and probably would have sold my soul to the devil to make it stop. And was told I probably had cancer at the first hospital who then transferred me to the second hospital. Once there still in excruciating pain the Ob/gyn oncologist came in and said your getting a hysterectomy. Hindsight is 20/20….sigh…..

This is simply not true. Most gynecologists use hysterectomies as a last resort. Insurance companies deny hysterectomies regularly without women going through many tests or doctors coding the reason for surgery, properly. I talk to women everyday that are denied hysterectomies and want them because of an awful device called Essure, which is a form of female sterilization. This is a topic that maybe should be discussed on this page. Thousands of women are becoming sick, have debilitating reactions, there have been 5 deaths and women are needing a hysterectomy to have them removed. Not to mention, women are developing autoimmune issues as well.

Melanie,
I understand that Essure is leading to even more hysterectomies and that is a huge travesty! There is no doubt that the Essure device (coil) is associated with many adverse events (e.g., migration, allergic reactions including autoimmune disorders) and is one of a number of harmful surgeries overused by gynecologists.

Unfortunately, almost every woman with whom I’ve connected via various forums did not need a hysterectomy for reasons such as cancer, Essure or ablation. And those who had an ovary or ovaries removed were also grossly over-treated. Some didn’t need any type of surgery much less removal of an organ or organs. Many just needed a benign tumor removed (e.g., fibroid, ovarian cyst) not the whole organ(s).

Since the large majority of hysterectomies are unnecessary (90% by most standards but 70-76% by ACOG standards), gynecologists know how to get past the “roadblocks” to get insurance approval. I had absolutely NOTHING wrong with my uterus. I had a large ovarian cyst and my gynecologist removed both ovaries, tubes, and my uterus when all he should have removed was the CYST. When I requested that Cigna tell me what my gyn submitted to get approval for “hysterectomy” I was told it was confidential and I did not have the right to know. Nor would they divulge the outcome of their investigation into my complaint of unnecessary hysterectomy and castration.

I signed a consent form but only because my gynecologist / surgeon lied about my condition and used ovarian cancer scare tactics. He also failed to divulge that the hospital (Mercy) was a teaching hospital and he would be training residents who have to do at least 70 hysterectomies to meet GME requirements.

I am 35 yrs old. I had my partial hysterectomy in June of 2003. I have since had 5 lapos since then for removal of my left ovary, part of my bladder and multiple scar tissue issues. My last surgery was in 2013 when I finally decided enough was enough. My son is turning 14 this year and I couldn’t imagine having to take away from time with him for another meaningless surgery. Doctors dismiss your pain and won’t give you anything to help it beyond a prescription right after surgery they don’t/won’t do long term pain management. I felt so lost for so long. Now I’m free. I still live with pain every day but knowing every min I spend with my son on this earth will now and always be on my terms. A blessing. I hope everyone finds their own path and I pray you all a happy and pain free life.

Tisha, I’m sorry you’re still in chronic pain after all these surgeries. I assume you have endometriosis which sounds like a horrible disease. It’s so sad that so many women undergo hysterectomy with the understanding or hope that it will end the pain. Unfortunately, many do not get relief or it is short-lived. I wish you the best life possible despite the chronic pain.

Yes Tisha, I agree with you. The doctors will not address the pain factor they act like it doesen’t exist. And if they do even acknowledge the pain factor it’s addressed by telling you to take Tylenol or some other over the counter product that does not work.

I had everything removed 8 weeks ago and still experience pain. I believe you that you also have pain, and it’s dismissed so easily by medical professionals. They have no sympathy even as they tell you that you just had major surgery. I wish you well and hope you find some measure of relief.

Oh wow. I feel so duped. I had no idea about all these problems after having a total hysterectomy. Mine was April 28, 2016. One month later I started getting terrible joint bone pain. I can’t sleep at night. I just started bio identical hormone replacement. It is a cream that I rub into my forearms. I have been waiting for it to make my joints feel better and to finally sleep….but no luck. I feel like I am 90 years old when I sit for a while and then get up I cant even walk because the hip joint pain is so bad. That is the reason I just went online….to look up if this hysterectomy could be the cause of my sudden joint pain and to my surprise, YES, it is! I feel like crying reading all of this. I did not have any idea about the physical changes that are now going to take place. I thought everything would be so much better after this. That is what my new OBGYN made me feel like.

Don’t get upset. I read it takes a full year to heal from the operation. Give yourself time. I feel that pain too in the joints and bones. So I might take some vitamins for that. I had my operation in June 2016. I went on the HRT patch and It’s being good . I am hoping after the year it will be all good.

Marlo,
I’m sorry that you were also duped as so many women are. What gynecologic problems led up to your surgery? Was the da Vinci robot used? I assume your ovaries were removed since you started hormones. Please be aware that hormone therapy is trial and error so it may take awhile to find the “right” type and dose for your body.

The hysterectomy industry is a well-oiled machine and has been for decades. I’m 10 years post-op and it still baffles me that doctors and hospitals get away with removing so many women’s organs unnecessarily when it has been clearly shown to cause more harm than good. Where is our government in protecting us from harm? I recall someone saying that when she contacted her legislator, she was told that he/she didn’t want to put any gynecologists out of business. Another woman was told by a legislator that the government doesn’t legislate health care. It’s clear from ACOG’s website that they lobby Congress heavily and we know money talks.

It doesn’t help that women who’ve had these surgeries are oftentimes not forthcoming for various reasons – embarrassment, shame, belief that it was necessary, misery loves company, etc. Also, the use of the da Vinci robot keeps the industry “alive and well” with promises of shorter surgical recoveries. And there’s a lot of incentive to use those expensive machines not only to recoup the initial capital outlay but also the maintenance expenses. Hysterectomy statistics are also misleading as they typically only report inpatient surgeries and many (40% in 2012) are outpatient. This leads people to believe that hysterectomies are on the decline when they are not.

I know you are still early post-op and just trying to function. If you want to be part of the effort to stop this harm / abuse, here are some ways to do that:

ProPublica’s Patient Safety organization is doing a hysterectomy survey. It would be great if you would complete it and include what you were and were not told about this surgery (whether or not you had surgical “complications”). Here’s the form’s link – http://propub.li/1t6uZNr.

Michelle, I’m sorry you’re suffering these after effects. If you don’t mind me asking, what problems led to your hysterectomy and what method of surgery was used (e.g., abdominal, laparoscopic, vaginal, da Vinci)?

Omgg I am layin here cryin im not alone i jad my hysterectomy on april 9th and by july i have been sufferin with joint pain ..They said i had epstein bar buat its not goin away so i went to a lyme specialistwhich he put me on antibiotics which he went on symptoms and now im reading tjis

I’m sorry you’re suffering so terribly! I recall another woman being told she had Epstein Barr after having a hysterectomy but I don’t think it ended up being that. I also know a woman who is being treated for Lyme disease but she didn’t have any symptoms of it until after her only functioning ovary was removed.

Did the back, neck and shoulder pain also start in July (along with the joint pain)? Or have you had it since surgery?

Have you had a hormone panel to see if your ovaries have shut down (which happens a lot after hysterectomy). A blood test for FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) and estrogen are the ones they use to see what the ovaries are / aren’t doing.

Everything happened 2 months after surgery. Was neck pain then went to shoulder pain and now at back and very tired and knees sometimes hurt .The only time I’m not as pained is when im laying down.I work in retail and im so pained standin its horrible and spendin all thos money on a lyme literate doc.ro just go by symptoms is driving me crazy..I am gonna for blood work on saturday and if it comes back negative im done with that ..What doc should inseak ugh ty for quick response all indo is cry i never felt so pained in my life xo

All my idiot primary would say is this is eptein bar and it takes at least 6 weeks for u to feel better and took me out of work for 2 weeks ..I asked her if this joint pain could be from hysterectomy and she said no ugh unbearable.So tired of this pain

Your primary doctor needs to educate herself on the side effects of hysterectomy! Reading women’s experiences like those here would be a good start. It’s frustrating and makes me angry that doctors fail to acknowledge or realize that removing body parts is harmful!

Yess i know she kind of tossed it under the rug when i spoke about it .!! Im gonna call my gyn today and try to get appointment. I cant live this way always in pain and i dont think its lyme disease..but i will keep takin antibiotics until blood work comes back ..Thank u sooo much for this because I would of no clue if i didnt read all this oh and by the way im debbie nice to meet u my dear

i just had mine done two weeks ago, spent one night in the hospital. sent home told it would take six weeks to heal then on saturday started with chest pain been in the hospital for a week. it turns out that my hysterectomy was the problem no one told me that my ribs would hurt like i was having a heart attack, shoulders, ended up hurting the stomach lining with the medication.

Beth,
I’m sorry you are in so much pain that you had to be re-admitted. If yours was done laparoscopically then the pain could be from the CO2 gas they use to inflate the abdomen. I assume you’ve also been checked for a blood clot / pulmonary embolism? I hope you’re able to go home soon and this is just a minor setback for you.

Gynecologists who do hysterectomies (which is the majority of them) usually don’t / won’t admit to the negative effects especially if they didn’t advise you before the surgery (uninformed consent). But he / she should still be willing to order a hormone panel. And I didn’t think of this before. You may also want to ask for a complete thyroid panel including antibodies because loss of ovarian function can also affect thyroid function. Let us know what you find out.

I had been having pain here and there for 3 yrs. Always cramping and the pain was intense. I seen many drs and not one dr knew what was wrong with me. I k ew some drs thought I was faking my pain. I found a dr that said I needed a hysterectomy because I had an over larged uteris which found out I had a mass growing in my uteris. No cancer. Thank god! I had my a partial hysterectomy
june of 2016. Not to long ago. I felt better after my pain was gone from my c section. But then I started having alot of hip pain and pain on my tail bone and Im cramping and bloating. The dr that I had wasnt informative as he should had been. My uteris was being removed because he told me I had a large mass growing like a baby in there. He put me on hormones, he said it would stop my periods and slow down the rapid growth of the mass. The reason for stopping my periods was because I was pernicious anemic. My blood level was a 6. Id lose to much blood durning my periods. I was having to take tons of vitamins. B1, B6, B12, potassium, multivitamins, iron, vitamin C and D. I was in the hospital 3 days. He removed my uteris and left my ovaries. He told me I wouldnt have to take hormones but if he took my ovaries out then id need to take the hormones. He was giving me a choice. And of course I did not want to take hormones. I didnt like how they made me feel. So, I chose to leave my ovaries. I also told him if my ovaries needed to come out then I was ok with it. He said they didnt need to come out. My first visit to him 2 weeks after my surgery he asks me if I heard of endometriosis. I said, not really. He begins to tell me that the stomach lining grows into the area of my uteris. He tells me that was causing most of my pain. This is something he shoukd had told me while I was in the hospital and here I am 3 months later and im bloated and cramping n my lower body of my hips n back hurt very badly.I feel pressure on my colan and bladder. I feel pressure when I urinate. And I urinate very often. My body doesnt feel right. I know something is wrong. Very confused and afraid.

Have you been thoroughly checked for a urinary tract infection (UTI)? Those are fairly common after hysterectomy and can be difficult to eradicate. The displacement of the bladder and bowel (without the uterus to anchor them) can also cause problems with elimination – incomplete emptying of bladder and bowel. That can cause discomfort and bloating. But it seems that there may be other causes of bloating after hysterectomy. It seems to be a common complaint.

Back problems also seem to be a common complaint which can be due to surgical positioning in the short-term post-op period. In the long-term, back problems are caused by the loss of pelvic integrity due to the severed pelvic support structures.

Endometriosis can also cause pelvic pain and cramping. Since endometriosis grows outside the uterus and throughout the pelvis, it can continue to cause pain after hysterectomy.

Hi
On 25th June 2015 I had surgery for a cyst on my ovary, when I was on the operating table they found the primary site was my bowel which turned out to have cancerous lymph nodes. In short I therefore had bowel surgery and full hysterectomy. We are now 18th August 2016 and few a couple of months between my armpit and the top side of my breast I have had a constant dull ache. I have checked my breast for any abnormalities and don’t seem to have anything, all looks normal. (I am booking in with my GP/Consultant to get checked – couple weeks wait) but in the meantime thought I would ask if this could be related to the hysterectomy?

Janet, I’m sorry for your cancer diagnosis. Hysterectomy or bowel resection wouldn’t typically cause pain in your upper chest / side. However, blood clots are a risk of surgery and the chest pain could be a symptom of pulmonary embolism which is VERY SERIOUS and needs immediate medical attention. Here is a list of symptoms – http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pulmonary-embolism/basics/symptoms/con-20022849. If you think you may have this, please seek medical help immediately!

I had my full hysterectomy June 4, 2016. A couple of weeks later I began to have bad joint pain like arthritis in my legs, hands, back of my shoulders, and hips. I am also really tired. My doctor put me on a low dose of estrogen but I’m still tired and in joint pain. I’m really concerned and my doctor had me go to the clinic and have hormone blood tests. I’m miserable the moment.

Wow, Danielle, those symptoms developed quickly! However, ovary removal (or post-hysterectomy ovarian failure) is a severe trauma to the body because the ovaries are endocrine glands that produce hormones our whole lives and are necessary for every cell in our bodies. So women usually suffer with numerous symptoms, joint pain oftentimes being one of them.

KW..Thanks for your response. I am seeing my doctor this Thursday to discuss my blood results and I’m hoping he can help me. I will bring up the antibiotic issue you wrote about. I can’t wait to start feeling better. As far as weight gain, the only place I have gained weight is in my chest I assume because of the estrodile. I don’t bloat anymore which is wonderful. Again, thanks for your response. Danielle

Danelle i feel your pain i have same symptoms since hysterectomy on april 9th of this year .Two mpnths later nothing but join pain and i have my ovaries ..God help us with this pain it is slowly killing me !!

Hello,
I’m sorry you’re feeling the horrible joint pain. I now have pain in my arms and I’m still tired. After work I come home and lay in bed for awhile. It seems to relax my body for a bit but as soon as I get up it’s horrible. I’m on estrogen and my doctor just put on testosterone after my blood work was done. Please let me know if you find a way of feeling better. I’m up for anything at this point! I feel your pain. 🙂

I too am in agony since Oophorectomy in April 2016, I had fibroids that killed my LHS ovary n Fallopian tube so they were both removed . I thought I’d be back to my fitness n my happy life ( I’m 45 yrs old) but no I’ve been hit with severe neck, shoulders , lower back n headaches . I no longer work n spend my days laying down with ice on my neck . My body is n joints is in agonising pain, I’m on morphine it’s so bad , I’m seeing a neurologist who said my MRI n bone scans look ok n also blood tests show hormones are good ? So why am I in pain? The gnaeo doesn’t even know what to do it’s crazy? He suggested HRT but will that work for my aching neck? I just want my life back , I used to be so hyperactive n fit for my age n now I’m like an old lady in crippling pain .

Jane,
How awful… I really feel for you! Did you have robotic or laparoscopic surgery? If so, it’s not unusual to have neck and shoulder pain due to the gas they use to inflate the abdomen. However, this pain typically subsides within weeks of surgery. So you obviously have something else going on.

If your other ovary’s hormone production has been compromised or the ovary has shut down altogether, I would think you’d have symptoms of surgical “menopause” which would typically include more than this pain. You said that “blood tests show hormones are good.” Hormone levels after ovary removal or complete ovarian failure will show post-menopausal levels which are “normal” for someone in menopause, ovaries or not! But natural menopause is much different from induced or surgical menopause because the ovaries of a woman with all her parts continue to produce hormones the rest of her life especially testosterone.

Thank you for the response. Yes I had laparoscopic surgery for oophorectomy, but the Gnaeo did say the tumour was wrapped around my appendix n bowel so he did cut me in two areas of the stomach due to size of fibroid.
I will request HRT when I see him in December as I cannot bear these symptoms, the neck joint pain is on daily basis n migraines are terrible . I stil get periods when they decide to come , but they r very heavy and I feel my body is struggling due to losing the LHS ovary n Fallopian tube , the right side of my body just aches which is probably a sign of the right ovary over working .
I’m sick of the drugs ( I’m on oxycodene) surely HRT will help me ? Does anyone know anything about it ?
Jane 🙂

Sorry to read about all the serious complications that women and you have dealt with after a hysterectomy. However, I have serious doubts about your waist weight and collapse of the ribs theory. The ribs are held up by the spinal cord and have nothing to do with support from uterus ligaments. A scaffold has a firm base usually the ground and the ligaments you refer to hold the uterus in place but are like ropes. you and others may have too much pain to try exercise but I would think that stretching and pilates would be of benefit. Other complications such as stomach muscles and belly fat, urinary problems, sex problems, and spinal cord hysterectomy related pain are serious and I have no suggestions. Just don’t think that most women benefit from such misinformation about a collapse of the midsection. It just adds to anxiety and the feeling that nothing can be done. Have you checked with a helpful doctor about this? And, if this is about a class action lawsuit you should get the facts straight before initiating it.

KW, The descent of the rib cage / shortening of the upper torso didn’t make sense to me either when I read about it shortly after surgery. But then as time went on, it became clear as I watched it gradually happen. It also explained why all the women I knew who’d had hysterectomies had thick midsections. The 3/4/15 post by Ann below describes it as follows: “My body was previously bikini worthy, now as others seem to have experienced, there is less support so my ribcage is lower and my abdomen has a bulge…. I have a new large indent in my back now, almost like the plane across where the uterus was has an empty void and doesn’t support my spine.”

Yes, some women have been so egregiously harmed by hysterectomy that they live with chronic, debilitating pain making them unable to exercise. Some don’t have pain until the back pain sets in from the loss of skeletal integrity. I have maintained my exercise routines and although I still have strong ab muscles, there’s all this compressed flabby “fat” that no amount of exercise can help. I avoid the form fitting clothes I used to wear because they accentuate my thick and shortened midsection, protruding belly, and flat butt. It’s been 10 years since my surgery and I still despair about how this has destroyed my body.

I know we’d like to think that hysterectomy doesn’t cause so much harm. But you do a serious disservice by saying that women shouldn’t share their negative experiences and knowledge because it may cause other women anxiety. The nay-saying and discounting of negative effects is one of the main reasons for the continued epidemic of unwarranted hysterectomies and all its harms. I’m curious why you mentioned a class action lawsuit. Are you by chance a medical malpractice defense attorney or work for one? In my opinion, all women who’ve had hysterectomies and/or oophorectomies without being given the facts about the life long functions of the uterus and ovaries deserve to be compensated especially if done for a benign condition. Have you had a hysterectomy and, if so, when?

Hi, thank you for publishing this information. Sorry that that website, which I think may have a name beginning with the letter “H”, banned you. This information is very informative as I have seen other women posting comments about suffering from back pains. Maybe they’re different from mine, but I think all is related to this surgery. I feel as though your article is describing me. I had a partial hysterectomy on Feb. 29, 2016. I thought it would alleviate the low back and leg pains I was experiencing since September 2015. In fact, my own gynecologist was convinced that these pains were the cause of multiple gigantic fibroids. The largest fibroid measured 10.5 cm last year, and after they were extracted I was told they weighed a total of 3 pounds.

However, the same week of my surgery I began a sharp pain when I strained at the toilet. The pain seemed to have originated from the lower back traveling down my inner thigh via my nerve. I thought I was having sciatica again. But this nerve pain never went away, and to this day I’ve still got it. In addition, over the last few months I’ve gotten this excruciating pain after I am in a lying or sitting position. The pain again originates from my lower back and goes down both legs to the point that I cannot straighten up or the pain increases in intensity. It lasts the entire day now. It feels as if my back is stiff and I can feel a sort of pressure in the pelvic floor area. I am sure that what you described about prolapse might be what I’m experiencing. No matter how much I stretch the pain is there. All I’m doing is depending on naproxen which I know is a risk to take long term due to the effect of a bleeding stomach to stroke.

I asked my doctor to refer me to a physical therapist hoping to get some deep tissue massage which I was told helps. Instead the therapist only wants me to do some core exercises which she said will take a long time before any improvement (if any) will occur. I didn’t like that she seemed to want to have me continue returning to keep her busy so I’m truly considering acupuncture next.

If anyone else is experiencing this sort of pain and has tried acupuncture please reply to let me know how it went.

Cheryl, I’m sorry you’re also suffering since your hysterectomy! I have not had acupuncture for nerve or back pain. Hopefully, someone will come along who has.

I’m curious if the da Vinci robot was used for your surgery. I’ve read that training on the robot is severely lacking but I’ve also read that, in general, gynecologists don’t get adequate surgical training during their residencies so many are ill prepared to operate. And unfortunately hysterectomy is overused. Also, if you were in a teaching hospital, a resident may have done your surgery and the attending surgeon may not have even been in the operating room.

ProPublica’s Patient Safety organization is doing a hysterectomy survey. It would be great if you would complete it. Here’s the form’s link – http://propub.li/1t6uZNr.

My surgery was performed by an experienced gynecologist (he isn’t an OB as well just strictly GYN). It wasn’t a da Vinci robotic surgery. I’ve read that this type could cause women to experience back pains afterwards due to how they position the patient. Glad I didn’t have that or I’d probably be in worse shape than I already am.

I forgot to mention that I suffer from arthritis so that could be part of why I’m in pain.

I had a hysterectomy with the davinci robot and still have my ovaries, this was June of 2014. I had stage 0 cervical cancer at 42 and I am pretty active, busy, work full time and it just seemed like the answer not to mention it was a very scary diagnosis.

I came through the surgery fine, picked right back up about 3 weeks later and carried on full time work, president that year of a local nonprofit – the weight started coming on late fall – I remember I wore a dress to an event in October of 2014 that laughs at me from the closet now! The weight continued, I went into surgery about a good 140-145, I’m fighting now to stay at 165. What started becoming interesting, well annoying is a better word – is the weight didn’t come back in the normal areas. I’ve always been very small around the waist and ribcage, small breasts (and I was ok with that and miss them, haha) mainly carrying my weight in my rear and my legs. They are the skinny parts of my body now and I have boobs and a gut, even when I would gain some weight before the surgery, my stomach always was flat. Leads to believe there is something to changes with organs being removed and just kind of the overall result two years post op of what I am dealing with! I am going to a new gynocologist today actually as I have been released from the gyno-oncologist to talk to him about this – it’s livable – but I think menopause has hit, my moods which I am able to keep under wraps except to those close is up and down and up an down and living in the South, the hot flashes wow, pretty bad. I look forward to reading other replies when I get time and I will report back in after my appointment – he was recommended to be a doctor more knowledgeable in the menopause area, I hope he can help and answer questions about the belly. Best to you all.

The reason your abs no longer remain flat with weight gain (or without for that matter) is that hysterectomy alters the figure as explained in my article. The four sets of ligaments that have to be cut to remove the uterus are the structural supports (sort of like scaffolding) for the pelvis. They keep the spine, rib cage and hips where they belong. Once those are cut, the spine gradually compresses, the hips widen and the rib cage falls causing your midsection to shorten and thicken / your waist to disappear. From my connections with other women, most don’t really understand this until it starts happening to them post-hysterectomy. Gynecologists typically do not admit to these figure changes…it wouldn’t be good for their hysterectomy business! It sounds like your ovaries have failed or aren’t producing their natural level of hormones which is another common after effect of hysterectomy that gynecologists rarely divulge. The ovaries of women who have all their parts are shown to produce hormones into at least the eighth decade.

I really appreciate your response and will try to filter through so many responses for other answers. If you have time – for women like me who are going through this at now 44 – are HRT’s recommended – or only in extreme cases? Do they help with this skeletal body change?

I’m not suicidal or sad, only taking a sleep aide, no anti depressants, just mad that my body is changing, I’ve started a product called Plexus that has helped my regularity, it never was good, after the surgery it was really difficult – just always constipated and the Plexus (or else it’s in my head) after about a month has really evened things out (hallelujah).

I had clear margins, but I had AGUS and with it being glandular the doctor thought it would be a good preventative measure as I have researched that can skip around. I think even if I had known this was going to happen,

I finally said enough three weeks ago and got back to the gym. Is there hope for gals like us, or is this it! Oh my. 🙂

HRT is a personal choice. I think it’s important that women do their own research and weigh the risks and benefits against the medically documented risks associated with ovarian failure or ovary removal.

There aren’t any real fixes for the skeletal changes resulting from the severing of all those ligaments. However, bone loss is a common consequence of impaired ovarian function or ovary removal (loss of estrogen and testosterone) which can cause additional deterioration to the spine and other bones.

I’m glad to hear you aren’t suicidal or depressed. That was one of the worst effects for me although I had many others besides that!

I hear you on the bowel issues. I had diarrhea for a long time post-op and my bowels have never returned to normal. Glad to hear the Plexus has helped!

II had a hysterectomy six years ago since then can’t go without a day having nerve pain on my back hips thighs no legs it’s mostly on my right side I work full time and now I’m of work because I in pain all the time

Sandra, I’m sorry you’ve been suffering with nerve damage since your hysterectomy. I’m curious if the da Vinci robot was used for your surgery. Nerve damage is a risk for any method of hysterectomy but it seems it may be higher for robotic.

I urge you to share your experience with two organizations that are working to improve patient safety.

ProPublica’s Patient Safety organization is doing a hysterectomy survey. Please share your experience of nerve damage and any other surgical complications as well as all the other negative effects. Here is the survey link – http://propub.li/1t6uZNr.

Hi, I actually posted a comment a few months ago above. I’m suffering from constant back, hip, and leg pains mostly on my right side but could be simultaneously sometimes. And it feels nerve related.

Since I last posted my comment the pains have gotten worse. I am now experiencing a lot of stiffness in my mid section and the nerves going down my inner thighs in the backs of my legs prevent me from walking properly. I either have to hunch over a bit or walk like Frankenstein. I must say that while it can occur at any time of the day or night it’s a lot worse after getting up from bed.

I haven’t gotten around to trying acupuncture as it’ll be out of pocket so I’m still waiting. In the meantime I have mentioned it again to my PCP who has ordered labs done but it appears that she is looking to a possibility of it being caused by rheumatoid arthritis. I’d been tested some years ago for RA but it was negative so I don’t know if it’ll show as positive now. I do not want RA as it’s a terrible condition to have.

What I have read in the meantime as well is that perhaps I’m in either perimenopause or full menopause; I have no idea as I do not have my uterus again just ovaries and cervix. I still get a bit of staining/spotting. But I read that menopause & perimenopause causes a lot of joint and muscular pains that are excruciating.

Also fibromyalgia has symptoms similar to mine so I am thinking about that too.

Thank you, WS. I think the nerve is damaged and if not certainly is affected. I do feel that the hysterectomy had something to do with it getting worse though. Because I recall three days post surgery feeling a bad nerve pain right in the lower back same as I feel often nowadays.

Hi, this is an update to my earlier comments on what could be the cause of my pains.

A month ago my PCP ordered a MRI as she suspected I am suffering from spinal stenosis. Well, she was correct. The doctor who read the MRI results stated that the spinal stenosis is “severe” & that the right side nerve root is impinged. Thus, the latter explains why I’ve always felt the sciatic nerve on my right side going down to my heel has bothered me more than my left.

So with this finding about my condition I can’t help but reconsider again if my (partial) hysterectomy had something to do with it. Sure I had back pain prior to the hysterectomy (thought was the fibroids were the only cause), but as the pain has gotten even worse (extending to my legs) after my surgery it seems like a possibility to me.

Hi my name is Michelle I had a hysterectomy in 2004 at 34, my ovaries were left due to adhesions making it impossible to remove. Ever since I have been very unwell, I am also type1 diabetic and suffered with juvenile arthritis as a child. I have suffered with chronic joint pain, muscle stiffness, headaches, acid reflux, a prolapsed bowl, severe constipation… the list is endless I have spent the last 15 years in and out of hospital, I was medically retired at 38 due to my illnesses. I was given no hrt or even spoken to about it, I have been searching for answers for years with no success with all my problems put down to my diabetes, which has never been stable, which doctors have never been able to understand either. my life has been a constant battle I have four children that I have brought up basically alone and when I think back to before my hysterectomy I was a happy bubbly person with a good job, husband etc I changed becoming old tired in constant pain not interested in sex the depression etc the list just goes on and on. I have never been right since I have got on with life as best as I can moved to France continued to look for answers for my pain but again all attributed to diabetes a cop out. I am suffering badly today with severe low back pain, pelvic pain, left buttock, thigh, knee calf and foot. I have just started in a new relationship and a sex life which is very difficult as I have zero sex drive also worry due to the rectal prolapse, during sex I am experiencing sharp pain that radiates into my hip leg etc and it is now constant I have been on morphine for pain for many years it helps me cope but it is not helping this pain after reading the information on here I am convinced my illnesses have been caused or made worse due to my hysterectomy. I feel very angry that I was never told of these very dibilitating side effect but also would like to thank you for the information, I just don’t know how to move forward with the doctors to try to explain to them what I believe has caused so much pain and suffering and what if any think can be done, I have asked for hrt before but been refused due to my diabetes which I think is unfair please can you help stare me in the right direction any advice info would be greatly appreciated, thanks michelle.

Michelle, I am sorry for your horrific medical treatment starting with the hysterectomy. So many doctors dismiss our complaints. I don’t know how much of that is out of ignorance versus not wanting to admit to the harm. You could point your doctors to this Medscape article “Long-term Effects of Hysterectomy” (registration required to read in its entirety) – http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/805517 – as well as the HERS Foundation’s female anatomy DVD cited in my article.

ProPublica’s Patient Safety organization is doing a hysterectomy survey. It would be great if you would complete it with everything you posted here in the “Is there anything else we should know?” box. Here’s the form’s link – http://propub.li/1t6uZNr.

Michelle, I should have also provided the following websites as resources for understanding the negative endocrine / hormonal effects of ovary removal which would also apply to post-hysterectomy ovarian failure (which oftentimes occurs due to loss of blood flow and feedback from the uterus). The first one has a comprehensive list of citations including MANY studies showing the harm.http://www.gynreform.com/citations.htmlhttp://www.overy.org/

All, ProPublica is doing a hysterectomy survey. If you or a loved one had a hysterectomy, please complete the survey via this link – http://propub.li/1t6uZNr. The survey includes questions about emergency versus scheduled, type / method, and reason. There are two additional sections, one asking “Did you or your loved one suffer any infections or injuries or other complications because of the operation?” followed by a section to explain / provide details to a “yes” answer. There’s another section titled “Is there anything else we should know?”

Please be sure to include ALL negative effects you’ve experienced even if they are not surgical complications. And if you were not told the facts about the long-term negative effects of hysterectomy and/or ovary removal, please state that.

I had a complete hysterectomy in 2004 due to severe endometriosis. Since then my low back, hips and legs stay in chronic severe non stop pain. I am on heavy pain meds. MRI shows mild spine issues but not enough to cause such pain. I’m wondering if endo is back. If so what can be done? I have lost 1″ in height since my surgery as well. Anyone have any knowledge if it can be fixed?

Eva, That sounds awful! If you don’t have pelvic pain, endo wouldn’t seem to be the cause. Have you had this pain since your surgery or shortly thereafter? If so, it may be nerve damage. Have you had a DEXA scan to check for osteoporosis in your hips and/or spine?

I had partial hysterectomy in 2008 ,I was 32yrs old I was ok till 4 months back am having severe lower abdominal pain and candida which is getting worse I consulted de dr with no effect I am so confused what is wrong with me

I had a partial hysterectomy in 2014 due to endometriosis, adenomyosis and large fibroid. I first had uterine ablation which did not work and I was still bleeding inside my uterus. I felt good the first year, but over time, I lost my waistline, I look in the mirror and cry. I work out but my joints, especially my hips, legs and back throb. I have gained about 7 lbs, that I cannot lose. I am still small, but my waistline looks terrible. I have so many regrets, wish I never had the ablation. I would have rather dealt with the heavy bleeding and my smaller waist. So far, I have not lost any height, but have lost my waist line and my bones have changed for the worst. My plan is to visit my endocrinologist to see if my hormones are balanced, my energy levels have dropped too.

Jill, I’m sorry you’re also suffering the after effects of this damaging surgery.

We need to expose the gross overuse and permanent harm of hysterectomy (as well as ovary removal / castration) to the mainstream media. There are a number of ways women can tell their stories and make the media aware of the many negative effects. ProPublica’s Patient Safety organization is doing a hysterectomy survey. Here is the link – http://propub.li/1t6uZNr. The survey’s main focus seems to be surgical complications. But there’s space to add any other information you deem important.

Thanks for sharing these stories! I had a hysterectomy 8 months ago and still kept my ovaries. I had a softball size tumor and lost more then half of my blood. I was in the shower then almost passed out , I walked into our local clinic thinking I needed a vitamin or IV. I was shocked when the Heath aide told me I had to be mediated out for a blood transfusion to save my life, as we live in a village with no hospital, I flew into Fairbanks, AK where I had to get more then half my blood back. The doctor had told me if I waited another day, I wouldn’t have made it. I am only 36 years and have 2 boys and 2 girls with a new baby grandson. Ever since surgery I had so much pain, discomfort, fatigue, and now depression. I used to be real busy with my family going outdoors for hunts, fishing and picnics. Now days I just barely do anything and my whole life has changed. My health has just been going down. I have been having some pains in my ribs, major lower back pains and my incision still hurts. I get tired very easily, my bowel movements changed forever it’s never been the same. I’ve been wondering if all of this has been normal and now reading everyone’s stories I don’t feel so alone, I’m the first and only one in our village to experience this also, I have been very worried for my life, like can we die from the symptoms? I mostly think of all my children

Julie, How scary that must have been! I’m sorry you’re now suffering such ill effects from the hysterectomy. It isn’t normal to have pain at this point (8 months post-op). Some discomfort (but not pain per se) in the midsection would be expected to some degree because of the shifting of organs, tissues and bones. You shouldn’t have pain in your incision nor “major lower back pains” though.

As far as the depression and fatigue, it could be hormonal since ovarian function can be impaired and even totally lost due to loss of blood flow and feedback from the uterus. However, the life changes this has caused could also be to blame. Testing of hormone levels may be helpful. A check of iron levels would also be reasonable. I didn’t have abnormal bleeding prior to my hysterectomy and didn’t lose much blood during surgery but discovered probably close to a year post-op that my iron levels were low.

I had a total hysterectomy in November of 2014. I have experienced so many terrible body changes such as the ones discussed. Hips have shifted sides of stomach are wide. No longer a woman’s figure. Legs got very dimply and joints and back ache. It’s as if I feel all these changes as they are happening and causing so much discomfort. Sex is not the same libido is gone and nipples no longer harden. Skin is terrible and uncomfortable. Skin is so dry and jaw line dropped. My hair is coming out and scalp feels different. Legs even changed shape and bottom section of body feels heavy. Doctors don’t seem to want to help and didn’t explain all this beforehand. I am so sad all the time. I am 48 and Not taking any hormones currently. Woukd estrogen help with skeletal changes and other symptoms such as joint pain? Is there shape wear or excercises that can help my figure transform back at least a little?

Suz, I’m sorry you were also a victim of the hysterectomy industry. It is so disturbing and egregious that doctors and hospitals get away with not disclosing the damaging effects especially since only about 10% of these surgeries are necessary.

The figure changes also became apparent to me around 18 months post-op and continued worsening for a time but seem to have stabilized. I used to have such nice flat abs, so flat my hip bones stuck out. I was horrified that despite being underweight (and even more so than pre-op), my figure had morphed into that of an “old lady” with a compressed / “fat” midsection and droopy backside. The figure changes seem to be the “best kept secret” about hysterectomy. I think that is the main reason I was banned from the big commercial hysterectomy “sister”hood site. And they didn’t even have the decency to tell me I was banned. They continued to appear to post my comments but they were only visible to me and no one else!

Skin and hair changes also aged me overnight. I had extreme hair loss and dryness and the front section turned gray. My skin turned saggy, veinous and horribly dry (face, arms, legs). I’m on estrogen and the skin aging and dryness have stabilized but don’t know if that’s from the estrogen. But I had so many other symptoms including suicidal depression that improved with estrogen.

Like you, I also had discomfort in my entire midsection as my skeletal structure collapsed. I don’t have that so much any more but my back occasionally hurts now that my rib cage is sitting on my hip bones. Thankfully, it isn’t chronic or severe but I do worry that it may worsen. I also have occasional pelvic pain due to bowel changes (and bladder to a lesser degree).

My sex life has also been destroyed and breasts have no sensation. 🙁

Without ovaries (or ovaries that have failed due to loss of the uterus), we are at a disadvantage because naturally menopausal ovaries produce hormones a woman’s whole life especially testosterone that can be converted into estrogen as needed. Yet ironically there is no FDA approved testosterone product for women. Estrogen has improved almost all my symptoms. It may help your joint pain…many women find that to be the case. It may also improve your mood. I wasn’t just sad; I was severely depressed to the point of being suicidal…had never been like that before. Estrogen helps maintain bone density so in that regard it can mitigate some of the spine compression. But it cannot reverse the compression and hip widening caused by the severing of uterine ligaments, the pelvis’ support structures. Osteoporosis is one of the risks associated with ovary removal (and ovarian failure) and can happen fairly quickly. There are many other increased risks as shown in this list of citations – http://www.gynreform.com/citations.html. How troubling that this information is not divulged to us!!

Stretching exercises and sit-ups would help keep your core strong and may help its appearance. Shapewear may also help. I have a piece but find it uncomfortable for little benefit.

I wish I had more to offer but at the same time need to be realistic. I will always regret that I was scammed into having my organs removed and will continue speaking out. But I also finally realized I had to “accept” the after effects and make the best of a crappy situation.

Thank you for replying to my post, it helps to hear from someone who understands as no one else seems to. My husband has told me I’m checked out, I guess I am. I am having trouble dealing with my new self with no help in sight. How much estrogen do you take..? I think that would help me but doc is giving me a hard time,, I will try it. Thanks.
Suz

Your doctor (gyn or primary care?) is giving you a hard time about taking estrogen? He/she needs to read up on the many NON-reproductive functions of the ovaries (and the uterus for that matter). The ovaries continue to produce hormones for decades after menopause (probably our whole lives) and surgical menopause is proven to be nothing like natural menopause. Gynecologists are SUPPOSED to be the experts about our sex organs’ functions but many act clueless. They would stand to lose a lot of revenue if they treated our parts as the health-promoting organs they are…they would have to stop removing them so recklessly! Sorry for the rant but hearing all the stories over the 10 years since my surgery makes my blood boil!

Do your research about the increased health risks of ovary removal and the benefits and risks of hormone “replacement” so that you are armed with information to make your case if you want to take estrogen or some form of HRT. Be aware though that HRT is very individual and can take a bit of trial and error to find the one that works well for you. But there are many options – patches, gels, tablets, vaginal rings, pellets. I have given a few of them a try and have been on generic Estrace tablets for the last 3+ years. Instead of the intended oral delivery (swallowing), I either take transbuccally (dissolve between cheek and gum) or insert vaginally overnight. This avoids the first pass through the liver and also keeps vaginal tissues healthy. Most doctors will look at you funny if you tell them you take it this way so if I switch doctors I won’t bother divulging that! Generic Estrace comes in .5mg, 1mg and 2mg strengths. 2mg is a pretty typical daily dosage for oral delivery for a woman without ovaries. But it’s usually best to start with a lower dose and gradually work up based on symptoms. The patch and gels also work well for a lot of women. Again, you can only try various forms and see what works for you.

As far as your husband’s comment that you’ve “checked out.” You’ve lost the parts that made you female so it is not surprising. If his prostate and testicles were removed, I can assure you he wouldn’t feel like himself!

Hormonal replacement will fix all of theses problems you are having.
I have been on it 20 years and I thank God I am on it … The horror stories are just that … I have a radical at 30, I’m now 50 and still on HRT AND WILL CONTINUE….

Mary, Although HRT is helpful for some women, nothing can truly “replace” the hormones produced by the ovaries. And as Chandler stated, HRT does have a number of risks and isn’t effective for all women. Of course, each woman should do her own research and decide if those risks are worth taking.

Indeed, many women are horrified by the effects of hysterectomy and/or oophorectomy because they weren’t told about the many consequences. These stories are very real and not just women being dramatic.

I had minedone in dec 2014 till today don feel well hot and tighness at chest area very tired most of the time even after taking herbal medication . Go see the gynecologist and was told not related. Dont have this before surgery.

Siti, I’m sorry you have been feeling badly since your hysterectomy. Gynecologists typically dismiss our complaints as unrelated since they seldom inform us of the negative effects before they do the surgery.

If your ovaries were removed or failed from the loss of blood flow and feedback loop with the uterus, hormones (especially estrogen) may partially address your symptoms.

Sir/Madam,
Pl explain about problem. My wife was undergone operation for removal of utrus (Hyp) in five month ago. But now a days back pain and knee pain problems are come to notice. Some few days there is no such problems except some minor pain of body. Pl explain any problems of any danger diagonasis and what treatment can be taken and which type of specialist can I contact for better treatment . pl reply as early as possible.

Sir, I am sorry to hear your wife is having pain since her hysterectomy. Surgical positioning can cause back pain but it sounds like this pain is a recent development which would probably mean the cause is something else. The back pain mentioned in this article is caused by the gradual shifting of bones and tissue (spine, hips, rib cage) post-surgery. Although some sensations related to this shifting can be felt by several months post-op, pain doesn’t seem to be a common complaint this early post-op.

Since she is also having knee pain, the back and knee pain may be a symptom of loss of ovarian hormones. If her ovaries were removed, quite a few symptoms can ensue rather quickly. But even if her ovaries were left in place, removal of the uterus can disrupt ovarian function and cause the same symptoms as ovary removal. Hormone blood testing may help determine the cause.

I had a complete hysterectomy (including both ovaries) when I was 30 yrs old (am now 49) because of very heavy periods lasting over 2 weeks and clots the size of quarters, both ovaries where covered w/ cysts, one was taken out first then 3 months later had complete hysterectomy, since then have had loose stools and bowel problems w/ pain in stomach, also had my gall bladder out 8 yrs ago, now I have more bowel issues w/ that like burning & very yellow BM’s about every 2 months or so, also have Acid reflux have had it for a few yrs and also have shingles and possibly Postherpetic neuralgia, now I am having constant pain in flank area all the way around on both sides burning & cool sensations in back around kidney area and tenderness in my belly area, fullness/bloating under my rib cage on both sides after I eat, but I don’t have pain when I urinate so probably isn’t any thing kidney related ( I hope) have had this for almost a month now, have had this attack now 2 times, the last was 6 months ago, went to the dr’s and urine was checked and said no blood was present so couldn’t be a kidney stone, was told it was probably the Postherpetic neuralgia from my shingles causing this, was prescribed gabapentin, this took the pain away and made me tired, but when it wore off before my next dose the pain was still there, now here I am 6 months later having same symptoms, also noticed s higles outbreak on the base of my skull right where my hairline starts, this appeared 3 weeks after all this pain in my back and stomach, so not sure what the H*ll is going on really, could this also be cause from scar tissue as my stomach pain is around my incisions as well, i have no insurance so can’t keep running to the dr’s or get any testing done, so I guess this leaves me just having to deal w/ the pain, not sure if the Postherpetic neuralgia pain last this long,just so frustrated having all this pain lasting for a month now..

jadedkrystals, I’m sorry for all your troubles! It’s interesting that you’ve also suffered with loose bowels since your hysterectomy. It isn’t surprising that it worsened after your gallbladder was removed. I have heard of other people having chronic loose bowels after gallbladder removal. Psyllium husk / Metamucil has helped me but I don’t drink it every day since I have times when BM’s aren’t as bad…haven’t figured out why some days are worse than others. Bile acid sequestrant drugs (which are typically used to lower cholesterol) can also be helpful for loose bowels.

As far as the midsection pain, it’s hard to say what’s causing it. The nerve pain from Shingles can be disabling. And as you mentioned, adhesions could also be at least partly to blame.

My chief complaint PRIOR to my hysterectomy was LOWER BACK PAIN. I was told “you will feel like a new person after the hysterectomy.” They were so wrong! I feel 10 times worse than I did BEFORE the hysterectomy! I had my uterus, Fallopian tubes, cervix, removed but both ovaries stayed. Purpose for the hysterectomy was due to being diagnosed with: Adenomyosis and Endometriosis.
(I have my OR report, operative report, pathology report, and glossy 8 1/2x 11 photos to show all that.)

Again, my surgery date was 10/15/15.
Felt really great up until last week of January 2016…. Noticed drastic, sudden sharp pain from my lower back shooting around the sacrum, up into my spine, all the way to my neck and head. This sharp pain was coming and going sporadically. But now, the excruciating pain in is my lower back constantly. It feels like constant pain in the bone of the sacrum (lower back). The shooting pain up into my neck and head still occurs whenever it feels like it, i just never get any warning at all. I literally cannot sit comfortably. This is impacting my sleep in such a way that i cannot roll over without waking up in tears and placing my hands on my hips and lifting myself up enough to roll over. Now for the past 3 weeks I am experiencing what feels like a “pulled” something or another in my upper, inner left thigh area. It feels like something is pulling hard- like a stretched out rubber band– and it hurts just as bad as my back.

I am in so much pain all day everyday and nothing helps whatsoever. Naturally my GYN got his money out of me and conveniently he is all booked and per his nurse (who was nice enough to return my call), “your symptoms do not sound like they are from your surgery in October 2015– maybe you should see a neurologist.”

Good God– seriously? I am so sick of one dr passing me off to another!
I just want to feel better and continue on with life.
I just turned 42 last month and I should not be going through all this pain which is now daily.

How awful! I’m sorry you are suffering! This sounds like nerve damage. I know other women who are living with nerve damage after hysterectomy. It seems most of them had a robotic hysterectomy. Do a web search for “robotic hysterectomy nerve damage” and you will see that it appears to be fairly common. It is a travesty that so many women are talked into a hysterectomy without being told the many short and long-term negative effects. And afterwards, the gyns / surgeons want to drop us “like a hot potato” now that they’ve made the big $$$ off of us. 🙁 Nerve damage is difficult to treat and it doesn’t seem that there are many doctors who know much about it nor are able to treat it. I wish you the best in getting some help!

WS
I have read almost every one of your responses and have only this to say. You are by far the biggest NEGATIVE NANCY I have come across reading this forum.For every woman that has had a positive experience after her hysterectomy, you apologize for them having done it, (you have nothing to apologize for) you say you are happy they are feeling better, yet you jump right in to say all the bad things that are gonna happen down the road. Are you GOD? How do you know what some woman will experience? Every woman is different. As I said before misery loves company and the more negative shit on this forum will only scare woman into making the wrong decision. It’s not up to you or anyone else on this site. It is a decision made by the the individual. And if someone decides to not have the surgery based on this forum they are an idiot!

Must be nice to be able to pick and choose which comments to keep and which to delete. This whole forum is one big depressing story after another. At least have some balance. Not 95% doom and gloom and the odd 5% positive experience.

Tracey, I cannot help but wondering what motivates you to continuously read and post your displeasure with our blog and the nature of the articles on hysterectomy, particularly on an article about skeletal and anatomical changes post hysterectomy. Are you paid by someone to do this? Do you have no other time commitments? Your displeasure is noted. Furthermore, as to your regular suggestion that hysterectomies do not produce negative effects, that is simply not true and not amount of wishing it were so, will make it so. Regarding this particular post and the anatomical changes post hysterectomy, while it is true that not every woman will be affected by the skeletal and anatomical changes associated with this surgery, every woman’s body will experience those changes and adapt or not adapt accordingly. Your efforts to suggest that these anatomical changes do not exist are simply not true. Any surgery that removes an organ will induce compensatory anatomical reactions. What was there once, is no longer there and the tissues and organs will displace in an effort to accommodate those changes. Some women will experience negative symptoms to those changes, others may not, but they exist nevertheless. Similarly, not all symptoms emerge immediately, some take years to manifest. Your denial that they exist, just because they do not exist immediately, is once again false. Finally, yes, we can chose to monitor and moderate comments as we see fit, and heretofore, yours will be moderated out. We get it. You don’t like us. You don’t like what we write about. That is your prerogative. Don’t read the blog.

I agree with Tracy.I’ve had a hysterectomy 06 years back as I had fibroids.I am 44 years old now. I’m in perfect health. I run 40 km on an average every week, do abdominal exercises, swim, cycle and play other sports. I do have a thickened mid section compared to before but apart from that there are no other bodily changes.Also not having to deal with periods every month has its own pluses. So really in my experience its not such a terrible surgery to undergo

DB, Some women do feel that hysterectomy is, in your words, “not such a terrible surgery to undergo.” Some women aren’t as bothered by the figure changes but they have been devastating for me (just as much as the loss of most of my hair and skin collagen from abrupt hormone changes). And it’s not just about appearance. These changes lead to back problems after years of the rib cage resting on the hip bones.

The other big complaint from women (regardless of whether or not their ovaries were removed) is loss of libido and sexual response especially for women who had uterine orgasms.

Did your doctor inform you of the life long functions of the uterus and ovaries and the negative effects of having the uterus and/or ovary(ies) removed? Many of the problems take years to manifest. Risks of uterus removal include bladder, bowel and vaginal prolapse and dysfunction, heart disease, impaired ovarian function and all its health risks. Women deserve to be given this vital information to make an informed decision.

I’m curious what prompted you to search for information on hysterectomy.

I am 54 and had a total abdominal hysterectomy 4 months ago. My experience of the operation and its outcome has been nothing but positive. I’m back to my normal exercise routine of weight training, running and yoga. I thought I would gain weight after the op, from lack of exercise, but that has not been the case. In fact, I have lost a small amount and put that down to a healthy and nutritious diet. I was using a bio identical hormone ( HRT ), for a couple of years before the op and have continued with that, using the same low dosage as before. My sex life is great. All in all, my energy levels are renewed and I feel fit and well. For each woman who has had a bad experience with hysterectomy, there are an equal amount of ladies out there, who’s outcomes have been very positive.

Patty, I’m glad your surgical recovery has gone well. What many women fail to realize is that many of the problems caused by hysterectomy happen down the road as explained in my article. Surgeries are supposed to restore health and function not cause a whole new set of problems as hysterectomy is proven to do.

I’m curious what prompted you to go looking for hysterectomy articles.

WS, I was looking for hysterectomy articles, because I am very interested to learn of other women’s personal experiences with their hysterectomies. It is a huge and fascinating subject, and probably more so when it is something you have experienced firsthand.

Finally someone with a positive. I have many friends who have had an hysterectomy for years and bodies are still ‘bikini worthy’ . Of course they exercise and eat healthy. Just had partial hysterectomy 2.5 weeks ago. Still having aches and pain too soon to speak on the side effects of the surgery. For now my midsection is smaller since surgery

So pleased to have found some info regarding the after affects of a hysteractomy, I had one in April 2015, followed by chemotherapy, and am now clear of the cancer. Body changes yes, definitely, but I do recommend a daily walk, I feel this has been my saviour, and has kept me reasonably fit, no not free from discomfort but manageable, and I recommend a daily quarter teaspoon of milled linseed to keep the bowels regular..

Shirley, I’m sorry you had cancer but glad you are now cancer free! I walked a lot after my hysterectomy too because I became severely depressed and exercise has been shown to be just as effective as an anti-depressant. I had been a regular exerciser prior to my surgery but ramped it up to fight the depression. As far as bowels, instead of the common complaint of constipation I had diarrhea which finally settled down to some degree but I still have very loose bowels.

Linseed / flaxseed is good for a lot of things since it is high in omega-3’s, antioxidants and fiber.

I have been reading all comments on this page and when i came across yours, I wanted to call you up and compare issues with you! We have the exact same pain and issues going on and what’s even weirder is, I also had Robotic Laproscopic surgery one day before your’s, on October 14th 2015. I experienced lower back pain and heavy periods before the hysterectomy and was diagnosed also with Adenomyosis and Endometriosis. As I read through your letter here, every symptom and issues you have explains mine exactly to a T! I feel the need for all of us women experiencing horrible pain and symptoms after these robotic hysterectomy surgeries, to all form a pettion against them, in that we should all receive money for our suffereing and pain caused by this type of surgery just as they have been doing with the women who received and suffered or have died from The vaginal Mesh surgical implants! Not only do I suffer with pain every day, My bone struture is different and my lower abdomen is swollen all the timje and hangs over my underwear line making it impossible to fit anything i wore before the surgery. I used to be tall and thin, strong and energenic.The Robotic Laproscopic Hysterectomy is a lie and a scam for Dr.’s to make money, NOT to make middle aged women feel better!

Kristina, Thank you for telling your story. I’m sorry that you too are suffering! I hope you can find something to relieve your pain.

You’re right that we all need to do something to end the hysterectomy scam (robotic as well as other methods). This surgery is so overused and not one woman with whom I’ve connected was given the necessary facts before signing her consent form.

There are a number of ways that you can tell your story and make the media aware of this abuse of women that causes permanent harm. ProPublica’s Patient Safety organization is doing a hysterectomy survey. It’s critical that women talk about all short and long-term consequences / negative effects not just surgical complications they may have experienced. Here is the link to the survey – http://propub.li/1t6uZNr.

I had TAH kept my ovaries (boy, that was a battle). But I’m also a lupron victim so I don’t put up with Drs crap. But had it Aug 2013. I have had so many problems since. I get constant UTI and kidney infections. I just went to a health food store and going to try killing colonies with a couple of probiotics than hopefully a prevention. But I have been having issues since day 4 post hysterectomy and it’s every 2-6 weeks. I also have severe rib pain right and left. I have bowel problems too and the nausea and fatigue is hell. I had awful periods. They were heavy. It’s the one reason I am ok with the hysterectomy but my back and hips and leg Ana d feet hurt but again this could be from lupron and the years of birth control. But my hair is so dry and starting to fall out. I am not myself.

Could the rib pain I feel be the rib cage falling off and my migraines and I also get some other severe headache. It’s interesting talking about loose stools because that has been happening than this god awful headache with nausea. It wasn’t like a migraine.

I hate this. I have had issues since I was 17. But I truly feel awful. My energy levels are just depleted. I’m dealing with idiot doctors rift now plus I am too tired to go to all these specialists. I also have 2 kids with special needs. I just can’t. My heart rate has gotten really high 105-130 at dr office. They say maybe cuz in pain. I’m always in pain. I just bought some cucumerin (tumeric). Because I am so desperate to feel better.

Jen, I’m sorry you are suffering so many after effects from both hysterectomy and Lupron! It sounds like your ovaries may have stopped functioning. It’s also possible they were removed despite your insistence to keep them. I recall reading a study where many women said they still had their ovaries only to find out they had been removed. And you can’t always tell from the insurance claim or bill because ovary removal isn’t always shown as a “separate” surgery or procedure code…pretty shocking that can happen! Inpatient surgical data from 2006, 2007, and 2010 shows that ovaries were removed in 74%, 73%, and 65% of hysterectomies, respectively. And that of course only includes cases where oophorectomy was coded separately.

HRT may help some of your symptoms and may mitigate some of the health risks associated with ovarian failure or ovary removal but of course estrogen can feed endo. Some say that taking the estrogen with progesterone or a progestin reduces this risk.

Your rib pain could be, at least in part, from the descent of the rib cage because it is likely now resting on your hip bones. My rib pain is intermittent and usually only mild…never severe. You may have lost a lot of bone density from the Lupron and now ovarian failure which can cause rib pain. Another cause is costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone / sternum). The pain in your joints is a common symptom of ovary removal or complete failure but could also be from Lupron. Since the ovaries typically function a woman’s whole life (they do not shut down at menopause) our symptoms and health problems tend to be much worse than a woman in natural menopause. Numerous studies support this as documented here – http://www.gynreform.com/citations.html. Plus we have the anatomical, skeletal, and sexual negatives of losing our uterus.

I hope you can find something to resolve the UTI’s and kidney infections as well as your other symptoms! Post back and let us know how you’re doing.

Hi I had emergency hystrectomy 2yrs back I m 32yrs now I was 29 reason was my placenta was percreta and my uterus got ruptured now I m having severe pain in my hipbone and my knee and shoulder left side hurting more and left side sole give me pain when when I walk I have three yr old toddler with me I have to run after him, quality Of my life is getting worse. I haven’t start hormone replacement therapy any good suggestion? are these problem cause of hormones depletion? suggest me what to do scared of hrt cause of side effect

Sumbil, I’m so sorry this happened to you! Were your ovaries removed? If so, you will want to read up on the benefits versus risks of HRT as it relates to the increased health problems associated with ovary removal. Even if your ovaries were not removed, they may not be working properly since you don’t have your uterus. Some bloodwork of hormone levels may be helpful in deciding if HRT may be beneficial. Best of luck to you!

Thankyou for your prompt reply no my ovaries was not removed u mean progesterone and estrogen lutenizing hormone and fsh levels should get checked before taking hrt ?? Hrt cause CA breast can u tell me it’s rate of occurrence as side effect and clotting defects what measure I can take to avoid these with hrt

I’m glad to hear you still have your ovaries…I couldn’t understand why they would have been removed. Yes, blood levels of FSH, LH and estradiol may be helpful. Since hormone levels fluctuate throughout the month, it is possible that levels will look normal at one point but abnormal at another. So it may take a series of lab draws.

Studies have shown that estrogen only (without a progestin) does not increase risk of breast cancer. You can find information on this by doing a web search for something like “pubmed estrogen replacement breast cancer risk.” As far as the clotting risk, transdermal forms of estrogen such as patches and gels have a lower risk of clotting than oral / pills since they do not have the first pass through the liver.

I have had a Laparoscopic hysterectomy in February with just my uterus taken out. Since my surgery, I have been nauseous and have bowel problems. I have had every test they can possibly do and no one can figure out what is causing this. This is affecting my life. I regret getting the hysterectomy but can not undo what is done. But was wondering if anyone else has had chronic nausea and diarrhea on and off after your surgery and if doctors figured out why?

I’m sorry you are suffering from complications! I had the same problems. The nausea wasn’t as severe as the diarrhea. I was going 6 to 8 times a day so ended up losing a bit of weight that I didn’t need to lose. I don’t think it let up much until about 9 months post-op and it was still pretty bad after that. It never has completely resolved and I’m 10 years post-op. But now I go only once a day (or less) but BM’s are almost always very loose.

I have not gone through a lot of tests. I did stool testing but not sure what testing was done. I assume they checked for certain infections like c-diff. My stool did have an abnormal level of fat indicating I had fat malabsorption which made my GI doctor (never needed one of these specialists before hysterectomy) think it was my pancreas. But my pancreas and ducts looked good on imaging. Plus I did not have the pain that is typical with pancreatitis. Celiac test was negative. Endoscopy did not show anything. I have not had a colonoscopy…have not been able to bring myself to do that at this point. Metamucil can keep BM’s more solid but I would prefer to find the root cause and fix it if possible but at this point it is probably too late.

I hope the cause of both your diarrhea and nausea can be determined and fixed! Keep me posted on what you find out and how you’re doing.

Tyvm. I am gonna be going to get a Hida Scan which scans my gall bladder to see if that is functioning properly. The ct scan I have had wont show that so that’s my next move. Then a colonoscopy in june. I have had 2 ct scans, 2 ultra sounds, upper endoscopy and then the 2 mentioned above pending. I also have had blood work done which i printed out and a pile of them. I can not take the nausea much longer though. It is making me very fatigued in the mean time. Just wish i found someone that had exact and what it was and what has helped someone. I hope all is good with you. ty

I am 55 and still having regular periods. My mother after 8 children was in her 50s when she went hit menopause. So was my older sister who had no children. I had several heavy, clotty, crampy and several week periods during August, September, October, November 2015. I called my GYN and she told me it wasn’t normal and to come in. A 66 year old friend recommended Female Toner Tea. I have taken the tea over the last few months. It seemed to help. My periods went to my normal 5-7 days, became less heavy and the clots diminished. I still am a bit crampy. I decided to follow up with my gyn in March and had a uterine biopsy. I have been diagnosed with complex hyperplasia with atypia. What are my options? I have my first consult with a Gynecologic Oncologist today. My gyn told me over the phone she was recommending a total hysterectomy since I had a “bad uterus” and also to have the ovaries and tubes removed. She scheduled my Gynecological Oncologist consult.

Maggie, I apologize for my belated response…my email notification informing me of new comments to my articles was not working so I was unaware you had posted.

I am sorry to hear you are faced with this. Did you get a copy of your pathology report? My gynecologist was dishonest about my condition to get me into the operating room. All I needed removed was an ovarian cyst and he removed all my parts. Hysterectomy and ovary removal are two of the top overused surgeries. Only 10% of hysterectomies are considered necessary. Were you not offered progestin therapy to see if that resolves the hyperplasia? Granted, atypia is worse than without atypia but progestin therapy does oftentimes cure both conditions.

With gratitude for finding this information and website! On June 23rd, I will be 2 years post hysterectomy (TAH) due to a growing tumor of almost 3lbs and a uterus size of 24 weeks….I was 52y/o and blessed with 3 sons. After 3 months post surgery, I had to retire my full time profession as a licensed therapeutic massage therapist due to fatigue, lower back, sacroiliac joint, hip, leg and foot pain! I do see my private clients 1x/ week, 2/day. I no longer can remain for long lengths of time to stand, walk, dance, sit, or lay in bed without the debilitating feeling of flares of chronic pain. My balance has been compromised and have had (4) falls since surgery. I have been through MRIs, cat scans, X-rays with none of the doctors in agreement of report diagnosis , including being told, it was all in my head and offering rx drugs for pain and antidepressants, all that I refused. I certainly feel and experience of incontinence and leakage of urine and stool. I continue to mourn the loss of my female organs and some days feel more depression. I have attempted my organic diet with occasional treats of pleasures! I use to enjoy my walks with my dog and make attempts daily, but I become winded and fatigued almost instantly, I worked with a personal trainer and found no relief, I receive medical massage 1x/ week which provides relief that lasts approximately 2 days and a sound sleep one night, typically I have insomnia and flip in all positions throughout the night due to the pain. I’ve gained 30 lbs and (2) dress sizes, post op and realize the weight also effects the joints and discourages me even more!! My surgeon suggest through assumption, that I go for pain management by epidural injections to numb the nerve, no way!! I do believe the CBD oil may help or medicinal marijuana vs. rx drugs, however, been reluctant to engage in this conversation with any of my MDs as it is not in their way of practice… I appreciate this video and information as it has answered all of my why questions!! Moving forward, I know I am not the same person physically or mentally, and as I always did will recreate my being to find balance and peace of mind, however, physically I am at a loss and wish there was a solution for all the woman that suffer same! I am open to receive any suggestions and pray for health and wellbeing to all my sisters of the world!

Lyn, Thank you for sharing your story. I am so sorry that you too are suffering from this damaging surgery. I have heard of other women experiencing dizziness from the hormonal changes post-hysterectomy. But I have to wonder if surgical positioning along with length of surgery is also a risk factor for that. I have read it is a risk factor for nerve damage. I don’t know if you had robotic surgery but there are articles about additional risks (such as burns) with that method. I wish you the best in getting help and relief for all this problems. Please continue to speak out about the harm of hysterectomy since only a small percentage are truly necessary.

Thank you for sharing, my symptoms exactly the same. You sharing is validating that I’m not crazy. Had vag hyst and rectocele/entercele repair approx 10 months ago, doctors don’t even hear me when I share my cocerns. Yes, need to learn to accept new normal and work as best as I can to find strength! Wish I never had the surgery….

I am 35 years old. For the past 5 years, I have been struggling with extended periods which are very heavy (2 weeks of period and 1 week of spotting every month). Every transvaginal ultrasound I have comes up perfect. There is never a thing wrong. 5 years ago, my OBGYN did a D&C and Polypectomy. He thought it might be a polyp causing the problem. He said it would be an easy fix and I’d be back to normal in no time. After the surgery, he said there were so many polyps in there, there was nothing he could do and suggested an ablation. The surgery was a complete waste of time. Biopsy was fine. He said at my age, the ablasion wouldn’t be a permanent fix but might give me 3-5 years before I might need a hysterectomy. After reading about ablation online, I opted out of that and instead tried the Mirena IUD. I had the Mirena for 18 months. I just had it removed this week. The past 18 months, the AMOUNT of blood I lost definitely decreased but I was still having bleeding and spotting for 2 weeks. Also, every time I’d have a nice long run without any bleeding, I’d get a yeast infection! Now I just take a constant prescription of diflucan and boric acid. Also, on the IUD, I began getting frequent migraines which I had had RARELY before. Also, my ovaries are now covered in small cysts which I never had before! After having a gushing 3 week period followed by a yeast infection, I had the doctor remove it last week. I’m back to square one. I really don’t want the ablation and definitely don’t want the hysterectomy, but at this point, my life is just not what I want it to be. I never read about women having hysterectomies for polyps. Fibroids, yes, but not polyps. It seems ridiculous that no doctor seems to be able to get these out. I guess I just have too many? I’m depressed and my quality of life from having 3 week periods every month is horrible. For now, I have my anemia under control but the Mirena helped so much with the blood loss that I’m worried about what will happen now. My doctor says he can prescribe Prometrium to help thin the lining and tranexamic acid to take during my period to reduce bleeding, but that’s about it. The polyps just like to bleed. Are there any other suggestions you can give me? One more note. After a difficult labor with my first child, I also have uterine prolapse and urethra prolapse. I’ve been told the uterine prolapse is between mild and moderate. So far, it doesn’t affect my life other than I can’t wear a tampon. I’ve gotten a second opinion, and she has just suggested hysterectomy since I have bleeding problems and prolapse (which she says will just get worse as I age). I’m tired of living like this, but realize that surgery might just bring another set of problems.

Gosh Claire, that sounds miserable! Although polyps tend to cause excessive bleeding, has a bleeding / clotting disorder been ruled out? Von Willebrand is the most common one in women.

It’s a shame the Mirena IUD caused migraines. I assume you have tried various formulations of birth control pills? Of course, with the migraines you got with Mirena, you’re likely limited there too since Mirena is a low dose progestin. Tranexamic acid would be worth a try since it is shown to significantly reduce bleeding – http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0015970/table/ch8.t1/?report=objectonly. And Prometrium may not have the negative effect that the (synthetic) progestin had.

I wonder if another gynecologist would be able to remove your polyps. So many of them just want to do ablations and hysterectomies so it can be difficult to find one who will do less drastic treatments. Of course they may just grow back. But if the root cause is addressed, they may not. Do you fall into one of the high risk “polyp maker” categories (high BP, overweight, have taken / take tamoxifen)? Do your ovarian cysts have a “strand of pearls” appearance that would be indicative of PCOS?

As far as the prolapse, if it gets worse, you could try a pessary. There are a number of types and they have to be custom fitted but that would allow you to keep your uterus and its non-reproductive functions. Of course, if you are bleeding all the time, this could get a little messy! But hopefully, you can get the bleeding under control!

They ran a Von Willebrand panel on me last summer and all 3 components were within the acceptable range. The doctor told me that if I had a clotting problem it probably would have shown up during childbirth? Although I had a bloody eye a few months ago and the eye doctor told me that there is more testing that can be done? I guess I should look into that.

I also wonder if another gynecologist could try to remove the polyps. But I’ve had 2 second opinions after my first failed polypectomy and both have just suggested IUD, Ablation, or Hysterectomy. Apparently if one doctor fails, they assume they will too. I was also thinking that if the “root cause” was found, that maybe if they removed them, they might not grow back if I’m on Prometrium and trying to keep the lining thin! It’s just hard to fine someone to want to listen to this.

I have no typical signs of “high risk polyp maker.” I’m BMI of 22, have low blood pressure 100/60, and haven’t taken any tamoxifen.

My body does seem to have a problem with growing extra tissue though. I have thyroid nodules (tested to be benign) but am on no medication because hormone levels there are all fine. I also have cystic acne and have since I was 12 and it’s not letting up! I also had my first Colonoscopy last year due to family history and at the age of 34 had an adenoma polyp that was removed! My body grows extra stuff.

The ultrasound does say that the ovarian cysts are characteristic of PCOS. However, the doctor seemed confident that this was only due to the effects of the IUD. Pre-IUD I never had any ovarian cysts at all. If I do have PCOS, I’m not sure what kind of medication I could take for that.

A few years ago, I tried different variations of the pill, but I bled for 2 months straight. The doctor said it was due to the estrogen in the pills irritating the polyps. So now I’m going to try the Prometrium as it could have a similar affect as the IUD but hopefully without the chronic yeast infections. I just got a prescription for the Transexamic Acid too.

I will see what the next few months hold using the Transexamic Acid, Prometrium, and NSAIDs during my period.

Yes it does seem like bleeding would have been an issue with childbirth. However, not all cases of von Willebrand are hereditary; some are acquired from other medical conditions. And some forms have very few symptoms. Interestingly according to Wikipedia, hypothyroidism is one of those conditions which you may have since you have thyroid nodules. But then again sub-par thyroid function can also cause an irregular menstrual cycle! Do you have any other symptoms of hypothyroidism? It is rampant in my family yet all of us are thin and pretty high energy which does not fit the typical hypo “mold.” Have you had the thyroid antibody tests done?

It’s interesting that you developed multi-cystic ovaries after the Mirena. It seems I read about another woman who had that happen. If you don’t have the metabolic syndrome / insulin resistance associated with PCOS then you shouldn’t need to take any medication. Of course, if they are causing discomfort or pain then that is another issue.

It makes sense that the estrogen in the combo BC pills aggravated the polyps causing an even longer bleed (you certainly didn’t need that!).

I can relate to growing extra tissue. When I developed an ovarian cyst, the CT scan showed that I also had cysts in my liver and kidneys. Thankfully though no polyps on colonoscopy.

Can you take NSAID’s with tranexamic acid?

I will be interested to hear how these meds work out for you. Hopefully, they make your bleeding much more manageable!

I see my endocrinologist in April for my yearly thyroid exam and ultrasound. I will ask her about the bleeding disorder and checking for thyroid antibodies. I have no other symptoms of hypo. My TSH, T4, and T3 have always been normal. I have no weight issues.

My OBGYN would at least like to do a D&C and Polypectomy later this month to check for any malignancies and try to get out polyps. He’s open to the ablation but here’s my question.

Wouldn’t a successful ablation be one where there are no polyps growing? If he is unable to get out all the polyps, I don’t see a point of doing the ablation. If he can get out all the polyps, I would rather take hormones to try to prevent the polyps from growing back rather than having an ablation that might not last long because there are still polyps in there.

I’m going to pick up my prescription for tranexamic acid right now! I can take NSAID’s too. I’ve noticed I’ve been extra dizzy my first few days on Prometrium but I hope as my body adjusts this will go away.

I am with you 100% that it does not make sense to do an ablation. The polyps are almost certainly the sole or main cause of the bleeding. If they all can’t be removed or they are removed but grow back then it seems you’d have a higher likelihood of ending up with post-ablation syndrome / trapped blood causing chronic pelvic pain.

Hopefully, the dizziness from the Prometrium will settle down. If not maybe you can take one of the vaginal forms that goes straight to the uterus and has less systemic effects but with all the bleeding this may be impossible.

Thank you for your response. I did ask my doctor about adenomyosis. She said that since I have zero pain with my periods, it’s probably not adenomyosis. I really don’t have any pain. No cramps, nothing. No back pain. Never have. She did, however, say it’s always possible, but just unlikely. She said the only real way to find out is a hysterectomy. Did you have a lot of pain with the adenomyosis?

Thank you for your response! My dermatologist actually ran bloods tests to check for PCOS since I have such bad acne at my age. She said everything was normal. I see my endocrinologist in a few weeks for my yearly thyroid checkup due to nodules. I will be asking about the Iodine deficiency and the PCOS.

Hi, yes I too had tried everything ! 2 normal births, needing force pts for 1, then 3 sections, I opted to have my tubes tied, 5 babies were enough , I’ve had nothing but trouble also! Tried everything that was suggested, I had my hysterectomy 2 weeks ago, all I wanted was better quality of life, but after reading this I think I may not have what I was looking for , get depressing, had my tubes tied, taken tablets, had marina, had eblashion, taken more pills, they could only remove 1 folopian tube, which was totally blocked, the other is still attached to my excessive scar tissue from the c sections, I’m feeling robbed at the moment and my husband dosnt understand why !

I had cervical cancer,1985 at 36 the uterus was removed,lymph glands and lymph node.I have my ovaries tacked up high,it hurts, had bladder surgery after that did not work suffered terribly, ,I have lbaf constipation and back from pain and sciatic severe anemia, life was never the same.Sorry for everyone, the surgeon and doctors saved my life but I am left with a world of pain can’t eat or gain weight IBSC Gerd Sciatic,disc tears,sex too painful,this surgery ruined my life, but when you have cancer and it traveled you have to do it.I pray everyday to be healthy again but this bowel pain and operation pain is still here after all these years.The pins hurt that hold up the ovaries and I still get period pain even though I had menopause..

I am so happy to have done the research on hysterectomy surgery prior to making a decision. My Dr. Told me the same general stuff but NEVER any of this. He is a male specialist so what does he know about the issues females go through after surgery. I am so sorry for all of your sufferings that each of you have experienced. I whole heartedly agree that the pharmaceutical companies make a killing off each one performed. It is not right. And good point to the one who said they don’t rip out a man’s testicles when diagnosed with prostate cancer. Is this a conspiracy at the expense of women or what!!! I almost feel like it’s a way for government to control the birth rate by using insurance companies and pharmaceutical industries.
After reading all of these I am not having this surgery and will only have the cyst taken off my ovary. This doctor said they couldn’t do that. Ha!!! I am getting a second opinion on whether or not there is even a cyst there!!!
I am so grateful to each one of you for sharing your story here. Please know that because you shared I am better informed. I had no idea that all that happened after surgery but it sure makes sense. I thank you all. Perhaps my life will be healthier without this awful surgery.
I pray that Jesus heals each of you and you each find that one or two things that will get you back on your feet again.
Thank you and God bless each of you!

I must have overlooked your post. I am SO glad you found this article and decided against having a hysterectomy! Thank you for posting. Have you been to another doctor to see if you have a cyst (or some other problem)?

I am 42 years old and was recently diagnosed with uterine fibroids. I have experienced pain, heavy bleeding, constipation, am anemic, and feel bloated around my periods. I have seen two doctors now and feel like my only option is a hysterectomy. In all my research, nothing takes away the fibriods except surgery. As I do more digging, I am nervous to continue having the same symptoms after surgery. I have also started using some alternative supplements, (i.e., pau d’arco, and super greens, blood builder) to help with both the fibroids and the anemia.

Does anyone have any advice? Will having a hysterectomy will improve my quality of life?

Breanne, I am sorry for your troubles. Although hysterectomy will remove your fibroids, it will leave you with a whole new set of problems in the long-term since the uterus and ovaries have life long functions. Only about 10% of hysterectomies are truly necessary yet 40% of women aged 45 to 54 have had one. I have connected with so many women since my unwarranted hysterectomy 10 years ago and most of us have similar complaints about how our lives have been shattered due to all the resulting problems. And they get progressively worse! Not one of us was told the facts about the importance of our organs (uterus, ovaries, and maybe even tubes) our whole lives. Please read all my articles about hysterectomy here before you seriously consider this surgery – http://www.hormonesmatter.com/author/ws/. There are a number of other articles on this site about hysterectomy or the uterus by other authors. You can find them by doing a search (search box is in the upper right corner).

Have you tried anything to address the heavy bleeding which of course will also help the anemia such as birth control pills or the non-hormonal prescription medication Lysteda (tranexamic acid) that you take only while bleeding? I assume you are taking iron with vitamin C to restore iron levels? How bad is the pain and how long does it last?

You should not need to lose your uterus for fibroids. If medication is not enough to address your symptoms, the fibroids can be removed via hysteroscopy if they are small or myomectomy if they are large. It would be akin to cutting out a cyst on the arm versus removing the arm. Other surgical specialties don’t remove parts for growths; they remove the growths preserving the part/organ and its functions. But with the gross overuse of hysterectomy, one must tread carefully in finding an ethical surgeon with the right skills to remove the fibroids. Fibroids shrink after menopause when estrogen levels fall so waiting it out is also an option although I know it can be tough not knowing how long that may be.

I am 45 and have been suffering from extreme mennorhagia since last 9-10 years. had so many hormonal treatments , tranexemic acid ethyl t sylate but no effect on heavy bleeding. since last 2-3 years I am extremely anemic that I have to take regular blood shots . I can not take iron in any other form. had D&C. uterus completely healthy still problem persists. had mirena 10 months back. since then I am bleeding continuously with a break of about a week between each period. amount of blood loss has reduced but I have gained 7 kg in last 10 months and having difficulty in breathing. there is no previous breathing problem. now doctor has given me a choice to continue with mirena or go for hysterectomy. hysterectomy is going to hav so many side effects and mirena giving continuous non stop bleeding. I am in a fix what to do. can anyone help..

Neelam, I apologize for my belated response…did not see your post. I’m sorry you are faced with this. Having tried hormonal and non-hormonal medications, I suppose there isn’t much left. I doubt prescription strength NSAID’s would help since tranexamic acid didn’t. Endometrial ablation has some drawbacks (some of which may not manifest for years) but that may be an option. Here’s an article I wrote about it – https://www.hormonesmatter.com/endometrial-ablation-hysterectomy-alternative-or-trap/.

Have you been tested for a bleeding / clotting disorder? Von Willebrand is the most common one in women. It seems many gynecologists do not think of or mention this possibility. But I’m not sure that would even change your treatment options but would be good to know. Here is an article about bleeding disorders in women – https://www.hormonesmatter.com/bleeding-disorders-in-women-with-heavy-period/. There may be other articles on this subject. You can find them by doing a search here on Hormones Matter. Best of luck to you!

I had a laparoscopic total hysterectomy, for a variety of issues including PMDD, endometriosis, fibroids and ovarian cysts. But, the reason I really wanted the operation, is because I have 3 herniated discs in my lumbar (l3/l4, l4/l5, l5/s1) and my pre-menstural week to 10 days plus 12-17 days of bleeding each cycle caused horrific sciatica and shoulder pain. My SPINAL SURGEON agreed with my gynae surgeon, that a hysterectomy would likely bring me tremendous relief. The spinal surgery option was dual level fusion – now that IS an operation you want to avoid if at all possible. I was fortunate to have private health cover through my employer, although I used the NHS for initial diagnosis and recommendations, incepting my insurance only once surgery became an inevitability – so I have no fear I was operated on for ‘business’ reasons. I’m just very grateful that both surgeons are top of their respective fields, and my consultations included appropriate discussions to ensure I researched, challenged, and reconciled to make my own decision without any coercion, indeed I was adequately challenged by man who operated on me to feel he would only do it if I could say with clarity I had no reservations. I have sincere concerns regards the validity of some of the ‘information’ in this article, and would caution other women to not let this piece terrify them. Ultimately, we must all choose to do what we feel is best for ourselves, and I hope all here find resolutions to their unique health needs.

Kate – I am sorry you had so many problems. Hopefully, your endo was excised at the time of the hysterectomy to give you a better chance of long-term pain relief. The anatomical and skeletal effects do not happen overnight. They are gradual. I do not understand how having a hysterectomy could improve your herniated discs in your lumbar spine. Since the spine gradually compresses and the rib cage falls after hysterectomy, this would make things worse not better.

When was your surgery? Were your ovaries removed and, if so, are you on HRT? Mood disorders are common after hysterectomy especially if the ovaries are removed or stop functioning properly due to loss of blood flow. I had never had a mood disorder until after my hysterectomy when I became suicidal. Hopefully, the trade-offs will be worth it in the long run.

Have you researched uterine fibroid embolization (UFE)? I had a total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH) in 2012, in which they also removed my left ovary due to what was thought to be Endometriosis. About a year later, they found an unknown mass on my right ovary and due to my age (48) advised that I have the remaining ovary removed as a preventive measure since I would be nearing menopause in a few years and they thought it might also be due to Endo.

If I had it to do over, I would have gotten serious about the UFE procedure in the years preceding my necessity for surgery. My surgery became imminent because one of my fibroids was growing rapidly and although fibroids are rarely cancerous, was growing into my vaginal canal. At that point, I was advised that UFE was almost certain to fail due to the location and size of my fibroids. Or, let me say, they couldn’t give me assurance of the UFE helping so I opted for surgery.

I told my physician (whom I think very highly of) to leave my ovaries intact during my TAH if at all possible. So, she only removed the left ovary which she thought to have the endometriosis. This surgery did great damage to my body and affected changes in my hormone levels, libido, etc. but nothing as drastic as when I had the oopherectomy to remove the second ovary. Since that time, libido has been all but nill. I take a small dose of estradiol which helps somewhat, however am considering beginning a low dose of testoterone regimen to see if that helps more.

Please explore all options before having this surgery. These issues are only part of the problem. You might not have all of these issues if only your uterus is removed, but often they will advise to have the ovaries removed at the same time to avoid need for other surgeries should you have problems with your ovaries in the future. Also, to prevent the possibility of ovarian cancer which has a very low recovery rate.

However, even with uterus-only removal, you will most likely be left with the issue of no longer having the capacity for uterine orgasms (if you did before), only clitoral. While you can learn to ‘enjoy’ these orgasms, they are much more shallow and sometimes even frustrating. I certainly don’t intend to be the bearer of bad news but strongly believe that women need to hear from other women who have been through this situation. There is a need for a very understanding partner also after this surgery due to the changes in your anatomy, mood, and libido. I have had moments when I’ve wondered if my sex life will ever resume to satisfying. Take good care and all best.

Kat, I am sorry that you too are suffering the effects of hysterectomy and oophorectomy and did not get informed consent including the fact that the ovaries and uterus have lifelong functions. The ovaries are shown to produce hormones a woman’s whole life and are essential to good health. Menopause is merely a transition from the exocrine / reproductive functions of the ovaries (performed by the outermost theca) to the endocrine functions (performed by the inner stroma).

I also want to clarify some information about ovarian cancer:
1) Removal of ovaries does not prevent ovarian cancer; it merely reduces the risk since ovarian cancer cells can be found elsewhere (they do not always originate in the ovaries).
2) For women who do not have a genetic predisposition / family history, their LIFETIME risk of ovarian cancer is VERY LOW at 1.3%. Studies have shown that the removal of ovaries causes much more harm than good due to the many increased health risks / mortality and reduced quality of life associated with ovary removal. At no age is oophorectomy associated with increased survival.

We need to stop treating women’s organs as if they are “an accident waiting to happen” and disposable. Testicular and ovarian cancer rates are similar yet men do not have their testicles prophylactically removed. Prostate cancer rates far exceed those of all gynecologic cancers at 14% yet men do not have their prostates removed prophylactically and many do not even have them removed after a cancer diagnosis. Lifetime cancer rates can be found here – http://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/more.html. At most, only 10% of hysterectomies are done for cancer.

WS, I appreciate your thoughtful comments. Please bear in mind, however, that I do not feel, nor did I ever say that I had a doctor who did not ‘inform’ me. That is a misnomer. My doctor did everything she could to assist me in watchful waiting over my fibroids and told me that I would have to be the one to make the ultimate hyst. decision. It was only when my fibroid grew too large and in a location to deal with that it became imperative. And, the ovary was removed only due to the fact that she was very sincerely concerned that I had endometriosis on that ovary. I did much better in the libido department until I had the second ovary removed which was not only recommended by her but another very respected surgeon who does surgery to minutely pick every tiny shred of endo out of women’s interiors so they do not lose their ability to have children or keep their organs as long as they choose. I just need to be clear on that. I also DO have a maternal history of ovarian cancer in my family – my mother’s sister. While that might not be directly mitochondrial, it can be a risk factor as I understand it since it was a maternal aunt. I do LOVE your equation of the rates of ovarian cancer compared to testicular cancer, however, and how out of balance that is. I agreed there is a problem. I feel that my issues were truly happenstance and no one could have prevented the course of events I endured. I have just been extremely saddened by my ‘losses’ as is so aptly covered in this article and wanted to offer some, hopefully, helpful advice to another woman who might still have time to make other decisions. All best, Kat

Kat, I agree that you did not say your doctor failed to ‘inform’ you. However, there were a couple of statements that indicated you did not get the necessary information to make an informed decision, those being:
1) Your left ovary was removed for what was thought to be endometriosis. Contrary to what many women are led to believe, removal of the uterus and/or ovary(ies) is not a cure for endometriosis.
2) It was recommended that you have your other ovary removed when the mass was found since you “would be nearing menopause in a few years.” This implies that your doctor led you to believe that the ovaries stop functioning at menopause. The ovaries produce hormones a woman’s whole life (although their function can be impaired after hysterectomy).

I am sorry to hear about your aunt having had ovarian cancer. When there is a family history of OC, it is typically recommended that genetic testing be done before resorting to oophorectomy due to the serious increased health risks of ovary removal.

Hi.
I did my total abdominal hyterectomy 6 weeks ago. I feel perfectly fine. None of the side effects they are talking about.
I did only walking the first 4 weeks. Now I am gradually going back to my exercise routine.
The point is to take it easy the first 4 weeks , no lifting heavy objects no running.
You will be ok.
Good luck.

I’m glad to hear your surgical recovery is going well. The anatomical and skeletal changes do not happen immediately. They are gradual. It can take a couple years to notice the effects of the skeletal changes on your figure / shape. But while they are gradually occurring, you will probably feel some sensations in your midsection caused by the shifting of bones and tissues. And these changes continue to some degree as the years go by since the pelvis’ support structures have been cut.

The shifting / descent of the bowel explains why many women report changes in bowel function, most commonly constipation.

It not everyone will experience negative effects of hysterectomy but everyone will experience the structural changes. Those cannot be avoided. If you remove a structure from the body, everything else will adapt and compensate. In some cases, the outward effects are not as noticeable. In other cases, they are very noticeable and induce a whole host of other issues. If the ovaries are removed then, the woman is placed into immediate menopause. If they are removed early, well before menopause would naturally occur, the side effects are dramatic and no amount of HRT will compensate sufficiently. It’s not being negative to discuss openly the potentially negative consequences of a surgical procedure. We should all understand this information before we make the decision to have the surgery. We should all be aware of how bad it can get for some women. That’s not being negative. That’s just understanding the possibilities. It’s better to have this information before than be totally blindsided after.

I’m 40 years old and was recently diagnosed with cervical cancer. The doctor felt a radical hysterectomy was the best solution to get all of the cancer. Me, being in information overload already, went along with it. I’ve been out of surgery for a week now and have found that my left hip hurts after a bit when I sit on a hard surface or when I sit on the toilet. My right leg I’ve had issues with going numb at insane times depending on how I would stand, sit, lay down, or lean my lower back against a counter. Since the surgery, however, it has stayed numb despite feeling returning the other areas that were numb. This numbness goes from my right hip down the outside of that leg to about the knee and some across the thigh. I can use that leg to push myself further up in bed when I’m laying on my right side and have burning sensations go through, sort of like several hot needles jabbing me at once. It goes away but not without me gasping and holding my leg. The nurse told me they would “look at it” on my follow up. Anyone else have any ideas why it would be doing this? I was thinking they may have done something to the sciatic nerve while they were in there. I’m glad I found this site and hope someone can give me a little in-site if this is normal.

It’s nerve damage. There may be post surgery inflammation and when that subsides the nerves will settle down but if it doesn’t it is likely the nerves are damaged in someway. I had/have that two down my left leg. Didn’t present until about two months post. I have nerve damage from a cervical spine injury from years ago and so was well aware of the sensation. I have learned from that injury that the only way to maintain it is daily activity – I have to workout to keep my arm from going numb (from the neck injury) and have deep tissue massages regularly (monthly for the last 15 years, sometimes more when I do something to irritate it) to keep everything moving. I’ve applied that to the leg and while it doesn’t cure it, it does become more manageable. Also, we have a writer on our blog – Leslie Wakefield – who specializes in women’s pelvic injuries and she does some pretty impressive and specialized types of pelvic physical therapy that seems to work wonders for those who use her. One of our other writers, Philippa Bridge Cook uses this to manage severe endometriosis and surgical adhesions. You might consider looking up Leslie’s articles.

Oh, and it could be simply that your back is out from all of the laying down and immobility of the surgery/recovery, perhaps even before the surgery. That is a simple fix, a massage or chiropractor or both can pop it back in and the nerve compression should cease.

Stacey – Nerve damage was the first thought that came to mind. Surgical positioning and number of hours in surgery can cause issues. I had some hip pain early post-op that resolved over time. I think it took about a year to resolve. The chances of nerve damage may be greater with radical hysterectomy but it could just be that you were in the surgical position for an extended period of time. How long was your surgery? Hopefully, your symptoms will lessen as time goes on.

The surgery lasted about 6 hours according to my family that was there waiting for me when I woke up. It was done robotically since he felt that was better for someone my size as well as being what he’s known for. Thank you for the insight. Was going to see a chiropractor once I was healed just because feels like things are out in nt upper back.

Stacey – Hopefully, your upper back pain gradually resolves. Surgical positioning as well as the gas they use to inflate the abdomen can cause pain in the upper body. I hope your recovery is otherwise going well!

When I was 25 I went to my GYN because I was having painful periods. He did a hysterectomy in which he took everything but my cervix. They tried putting me on several different hormones over a 2 year period, but none were right for me. Now I’m 37 and have been experiencing some major issues with fractured ribs. I have had two fractures within a two month period. Both were caused when someone gave me a hug. And I can’t stand on my feet for long periods of time. I only weigh around 119 lbs. so I know it’s not my size that’s causing the problems. It’s seems I’m way too young for all of these health issues.

Jerri – I am so sorry that you also fell victim to the hysterectomy and oophorectomy industry. It makes me so angry to read stories like yours. With the epidemic of unwarranted female organ removal, it’s clear that Gynecology health care professionals have no ethics or moral compass.

The fact that you could not find the “right” HRT just goes to show that we are sold another false bill of goods in that we can’t just pop a pill or slap on a patch and life goes on. And to add insult to injury, women’s ovaries also produce androgens such as testosterone with fairly high levels long after menopause. Yet there is no FDA approved testosterone. And androgens are important for much more than sex drive, one being bone density.

After five years of horrendous bleeding issues, pain and chronic anaemia I had a total hysterectomy, leaving only the right ovary. I also had vaginal repairs for a prolapse. Pathology did indicate multiple cysts; very enlarged uterus; adenomyosis and other inflammatory processes.

I was looking forward to the future post surgery of not being confined to the house for 2 to 3 days a month due to the heaviness and certainly thought my prolapse issues was gone or markedly improved would also improve the quality of my life, including sexually.
I am only three and a half months post surgery BUT I am in worse pain now than prior, despite being checked by Doctor and two Gynaecologists who all tell me I shouldn’t be in pain.

In HINDSIGHT I was so blasé in my approach, with looking at the whole picture. If only I could turn back time, I would vastly change my decisions and ask a lot more questions. The trouble with most gyno-surgeons is that they have a far too clinical approach SURGICALLY.
I certainly miss my uterus and cervix sexually, with orgasms being a shallow version of what they use to be. Two Doctors were down right dismissive of my less quality sex life saying that the clitoris and surrounding areas are the major conductors of orgasm (true to a degree) but one cannot dismiss the role of the uterus and cervix in ‘deep’ orgasms and lubrication. I am especially upset that I allowed such a large surgery to take place when all that should have been removed at the most, was uterus and left ovary, but I am trying not to dwell now as I have to move forward.

I have chronic low to moderate pain for the last two weeks in back and genitals, dismissed as being nothing to do with the hysterectomy and due to sacral/coccyx issues only (… but I beg to differ as I believe it is all interconnected).

There is a large gap of information not given to women post surgery in rehabilitation, specific exercises to do to build yourself from inside out to support your ‘new’ body. Nobody tells you about the chance (albeit small) of chronic nerve damage or the possibility of prolapse of bowel/bladder after a hysterectomy due to your altered body.
Two gynaecologists didn’t even address the correct care post vaginal repairs. Etc, how to sit and breathe for that bowel motion or diet/fluid specifics and that pelvic floor exercises/therapy is a ;must. All I got was” A make sure you drink plenty of water, eat well and take it easy for six weeks” is NOT enough information.
Nor do most tell you about sex, pre sex preparation, suitable lubrication, the possible need for short term vaginal hrt creams etc or gentle techniques or positions and the possibility of needing to use dilators to gently re-stretch the shortened and altered vagina.

I have had to research myself for diet; dietary supplements; re-exploring sexuality in new ways to adapt to my altered body; safe pelvic floor specific books/dvds; addressing pelvic pain through exercise; pelvic safe yoga and physiotherapists and acupuncturists who specialize in pelvic issues. I also had to actively chase the name of a Doctor who addresses hormonal issues through an orthodox and herbal approach, that looks at oestrogen and testosterone therapy, not just hand out the generic dose of an ‘over the counter’ one dose fits all approach.
I had to discover and become proactive all on my own, two Doctors and two Gynaecologists really gave me no real help at all.

This has been a whole new learning curve that the most medical profession has glossed over. The basic information of major risks of a hysterectomy being:
infection; damage to other organs during surgery; blood clots and bleeding doesn’t even really touch upon it all.

Hell, even addressing that dry vagina after going into a full blown surgical menopause (which I was told wouldn’t happen because I had one healthy ovary left) wasn’t addressed nor was addressing the tight tissue post vaginal repair, which after a hit and miss approach has been helped by massaging with vitamin d oil from capsules.

Some of the medical profession has a lot to answer for, I am just glad there are some who look at women holistically and not in selected body parts in their approach.

I know some women’s lives improve vastly after a hysterectomy, I was not one of them, early days I know, but now I am left with trying to rebuild my life.
I have grieved, gotten angry and now am being proactive.

Jay – Thank you for sharing your story. I know it is difficult to share this personal information and admit that you were in essence scammed. Unfortunately, there are so many of us who are victims of the overuse and misinformed consent of the hysterectomy and ovary removal (castration) industry.

It is an atrocity (besides being a violation of the Hippocratic Oath) to disassemble women for just about everything that “ails them” concerning their female parts. It is incumbent upon us to speak out and make every effort to stop the gross overuse of these surgeries. In the U.S., 40% of women aged 45 to 54 have had a hysterectomy. That is a disgrace on the Gynecology specialty as well as the hospitals and surgical centers.

I hope you find “solutions” for the problems caused by the removal of your organs.

Hi! My experience is quite similar. 7 years ago I had a full hysterectomy. (Cervix, Fallopian tubes, uterus and left ovary) during this surgery I also had a bladder suspension. Three years ago I had to have a bladder sling. The suspension lifted my bladder. And the most recent was the sling which pulled my bladder forward. So right now I currently have both the suspension and the sling.

As of now I have developed vaginal prolapse to the point where my intestines bulges out from my vagina and I have to push it back in. This mostly happens when I need to have a BM. For me being regular is about every five days or more.

If I walk for more then half our or so my insides feel like they are just hanging inside. To the point where it hurts and I have to lay down on my back. I can’t explain it any other way then it feels like I have to push as though I am in labor. The pressure on the pubic bone and the pressure on my pelvic floor.

If anyone else is experiencing this similar pain please let me know. This is very debilitating. Not to mention I feel like my body looks so different in my midsection. I have never had a weight issue and now I feel like I do.

Lynn, How awful! I have read that 35% of women undergo a second surgery within 2 years (if I remember correctly) after having a hysterectomy. That really shocked me! Just goes to show that hysterectomy is a very damaging surgery. I am sorry you are now dealing with vaginal vault prolapse and a prolapsed bowel. It is sickening that gynecologists destroy the lives of so many women and those who could change it look the other way or enable them!

And yes the figure changes are devastating not to mention the pain caused by the misalignment of the bones and compression of nerves and blood vessels.

I had a hysterectomy 2/2010. In 2011 diagnosed with Graves Disease (hyperthyroid). Then I began to experience numbness in my right foot March 2012. I had MRI in 10/2013 found that have cervical spinal stenosis. I also have left hip and left lower back pain. I shared all of this with my GYN who performed the surgery. He says that the only thing that can happen is Osteoporosis. My life has flipped upside down and all around. I stopped working 6/2013 because of all these after diagnosis.

Sherlyn, I am sorry for all the problems you have developed since your hysterectomy. Thyroid problems are common post-hysterectomy since the endocrine havoc puts a lot of stress on the thyroid. And as detailed in this article, hysterectomy destroys the spine and hips so your other problems are not surprising. Hyperthyroidism is also associated with bone loss as is ovary removal or post-hysterectomy reduced ovarian function or failure. I have found that the majority of gynecologists are not honest (either before our surgeries or after) about all the problems that can, and so often do, occur after the uterus and/or ovaries are removed. I hope you can find some way to improve your situation.

Oh how I wish I knew all this before my surgery. I would NEVER have had it done. When they find a “very slow growing cancer” (prostate) in men they adopt a “wait and see” attitude In women they rip our genitals out. Weight gain, huge breasts (I’ve always been big busted which I hated but was losing weight and they were starting to get a bit smaller and then….) that I have suffered with all my life.

Quality of life is very important. “Slow growing”…what, like 20 years? I should have walked out of that office, looked for someone willing to try freezing the polyp (very small cancer encapsulated in polyp–or so they said), removing it etc. etc. anything but what they did.

I am a miserable castrated woman who has even contemplated suicide during the last three years. I hope all these surgeons burn in hell. A woman did my surgery and I can’t figure out why another female would do this. A man—let’s tell him he has a tiny “spot” of prostate cancer and then cut his family jewels off. Sorry but I am going out of my mind. I want my body back.

Sharon, I am so very sorry for what was done to you! The cancer scare tactic was used on me too by a gyn I had trusted for almost 20 years. I never ever could have imagined that he would betray me so horribly nor that I would fall for the scam. If you haven’t read my hysterectomy story, you can find it by clicking on my author name “WS” next to this article’s title. I was scammed at least in part to help residents meet their minimum surgical requirements for hysterectomy. Each resident is required to do 70 hysterectomies.

This hysterectomy and castration racket has been going on far too long. It is well past time that the authorities step in and stop all this harm that is destroying women and their families!

Hello and thanks for posting your wisdom and knowledge. I’ve been experiencing pain that I can’t really diagnose nor can my doctor. Before I came upon this site, I was looking for information that I can take to my dr’s appointment tomorrow. As of now, everything that I’ve found is linked to gallbladder or heart issues. Well, the pain that I’ve had is recurring. For years, I’ve dealt with fibroids and the pain that comes with it and could do nothing about it because I never had insurance until the Obama Care. It seems like once I got it, the pain kicked up in high gear with sudden sharp killer pains that would stop me in my tracks to feeling like something had come out. Well, something did…my cervix…hanging out of my vagina! I called my doctor ASAP and upon checking me, he already confirmed that it was my cervix and would need surgery to snip off parts of it rather than remove it. We didn’t see eye to eye so I found a new doctor that checked me and felt it was no other option other than to perform a hysterectomy. I wasn’t sure because I wanted kids and then seen those chances slip through my fingers. After prayer and support from my sister and family, I opted for the surgery with the daVinci robot. After my surgery, I started dealing with constipation which was never an issue before where I needed Miralax and stool softeners for elimination. But I was relieved that the pain was gone so I just dealt with it. It never dawned on me that surgery is probably the culprit now because the same issues that I complained about with my female parts are now the same issues I’m currently expressing. The same pains are back and I have no clue what to do. But, I will say that this article was quite helpful. I will be talking to my doctor about the gallbladder and heart issues but I will definitely be talking about the possibilities of complications due to having the hysterectomy. Thank you for sharing and let no one cause you to stay silent. I speak the truth where necessary as well not only to help and shed light, but to hopefully show someone else that silence is not always golden.

Cheryl – Thank you for your kind words. I am so sorry that you too were a victim of hysterectomy over-treatment (as is the case for most women who have this surgery). Constipation is a common complaint since the bowels are displaced. Adhesions (scar tissue), reduced innervation and blood flow can further hinder bowel function. Bladder problems also tend to ensue since the bladder is likewise affected. I have written about these changes here http://www.hormonesmatter.com/hysterectomy-impact-pelvic-floor-organ-function/. You can see a list of all 7 of my articles here – http://www.hormonesmatter.com/author/ws/.

I hope you can get a diagnosis for this pain and find something that relieves it. There are tests for gallbladder function (HIDA scan). Be aware though that gallbladders are also unnecessarily removed (although I don’t know at what rate). And one can suffer permanent negative effects afterwards. Of course, there are cases where it needs to be removed.

It is so important that we educate ourselves since we are the ones who have to live with the consequences. It is sad that health care has come to that but just as in any other business, there are unethical people. And then there are those who are just incompetent.

Dear WS,
Thank you so much for taking so much of your time to write these articles & for all of your diligent research, etc., I know this can’t be an thing for you (especially living it yourself personally). We definitely need more like you, especially when it comes to women & their reproductive systems.
My life took a huge drastic turn 10.5 years ago, at the age of 30.5 years old. I became the victim of surgically induced early menopause due to an ectopic pregnancy that went extremely bad to even worse (as if losing a pregnancy wasn’t already horrific enough). Now, I realize that my situation may not “fit” perfectly into this particular article you wrote & the comments therein after, however, I can tell by reading your other articles & the comments you leave, that you will not mind where I “put” my story. Thank you in advance…
Okay, so this ectopic pregnancy emergency surgery was supposed to be laparoscopic, however, immediately upon the Dr. making the initial belly button incision, the whole OR Team (at a very large University Hospital) found out the hard way that my ectopic had blown up like a hand granade inside (Dr.’s exact words upon waking up). I’m not going to get into all the gory details here, but just know that a 40 min. surgery turned into a massive life threatening five hour surgery!! I lost so much blood, I nearly died on the table, more than once. Prior to this, I was a good gynecological patient, always got my annual pelvic exams & PAP’s, etc. Also, miscarried once prior to the ectopic. This particular miscarriage happened quickly & was able to “purge” the non-viable pregnancy on my own. Of course, I was under proper care from my OBY/GYN, to be sure all “passed” & that I wasn’t in any danger. Even prior to the first miscarriage event, I had a few ovarian/uterine ultrasounds, confirming ovarian cysts on BOTH left & right sides. Okay, so fast forward to my awful ectopic emergency surgery & recovery. Immediately upon waking, my Resident Surgeon in charge (doing the majority of the work) exclaimed to me with deep concern the following (not verbatim):
1) “We almost lost you a few times, but you’re a fighter…” then followed by “We need to perform an HIV Test because the scalpel knife sliced my finger while cutting your stomach open!” Of course, being super in pain, groggy & disoriented, I shook my head yes/okay to test my blood (in case I infected him). Can you believe that?! I get it, but not what I want to hear…
2) Then the Dr. proceeded to tell me that I lost the baby (11 weeks), which I knew would be the case… But then said something like, “did you have cancer or radiation treatment before?!” I shook my head NO! Doctor then said, “the turmoil from the ruptured pregnancy, caused permanent damage to your left ovary & Fallopian tube, which is now cleared out. But, I was unable to find your right ovary & I looked hard for it!” I was in such shock over this all, but to have him tell me I’m missing my right ovary, when I’m pretty certain I had both ovaries based on previous ultrasounds, was putting me in a “Twilight Zone” feel. The Dr. then said that my right Fallopian tube was barely there & what was present, looked to be severely damaged, but the damage was NOT from the rupture, it was “old damage”, scarred & about 1/2 the size it should be (compared to a healthy tube). He said, “that’s why I asked if you had cancer or radiation therapy.” WOW!!
Of course, I’m beyond devastated, not to mention in severe pain, as the incision was now fairly long, long enough to be stapled shut with about 20 staples. Background story necessary because, I can contest to sudden removal of ovaries, no matter what the reason & the horrible impact it has when you no longer produce female hormones, especially estrogen. So, here I am, a young female at the age of 30, who can no longer conceive or bare children. A thriving female, who only felt a glimpse of what it’s like to be pregnant. So sad! The Dr. did NOT remove my uterus or cervix at that time, but that didn’t matter when it came to ALL the yucky menopause symptoms – GOD AWFUL! After that fateful day, it changed me & my body, for the worse, FOREVER, just as you’ve described your body. About 8 years later (at the age of 38), I had to remove my cervix & uterus due to life threatening & sudden hemorrhaging (they were basically dying with proper hormones). I really wanted to keep those “parts” (for health reasons), but obviously, wasn’t meant to be & couldn’t feasibly go on living while bleeding out like I was. The entire Menopause experience has been so difficult on my body and once my cervix & uterus was removed, my health declined even further, big time! Not sure if this is a coincidence or not, but my strong intuition tells me it’s not a coincidental situation. Would truly love to pick your brain, as I never actually opened up to anyone about this in this magnitude or capacity (so personal & devastating). I have a lot of other health factors that I can explain, but thought it best for you & others to not go too deep, for fear of confusion.
Is there anyway you’d be willing to discuss this privately with me, WS? Maybe you’ve met or communicated with others that have had a similar experience. This still weighs very heavy on me after all these years and with more & more problems occurring, I’m starting to really wear thin (more ways than one; my weight is decreasing & my bone density is severely low). Thank you again!! Much love & support to all who are suffering in various ways due Hysterectomies & other health ailments. You are never alone in this!
All my best,
CaneySuzyQ

SuzyQ – What a horrific story! I am so very sorry for what happened to you! I am not surprised that losing your uterus caused further problems since we really need all our parts. Did your “menopausal” (surgical menopause is a misnomer) symptoms worsen after the hysterectomy along with other changes? I have to wonder if you still had your right ovary and they removed it? I know of some women whose ovary(ies) was/were removed and they did not even know it. You can find a whole list of citations about the effects of ovary removal (and some about hysterectomy) at http://www.overy.org. I will also email you privately.

Suzie – Unfortunately this is not, in your words, bullsh*t. It is too bad your doctor didn’t remove just your fibroids so you could keep your uterus and its LIFE LONG functions. Doctors, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and now device manufacturers (da Vinci) profit handsomely from this surgery. I have connected with many women who have had hysterectomies and none of them were told the long-term risks and repercussions.

I am curious what prompted you to seek out this information after your surgery. How long has it been since your surgery?

Hello,the reason I came to this site is because of excessive bloating and belly protrusion. I had my partial in 2003 and since then I`ve had constant bloating and lack of bowel elimination at times it never donned on me until now that it may be from my hysterectomy, i`ve tried practically everything to ease the discomfort but nothing is working. What do I do now? is there any help? or should I consider a tummy tuck?

I’m a 46 year old who just underwent a recent hysterectomy. It’s early so I can’t say anything other than what I feel at this moment. I’m feeling so much better mentally. I to check the Internet about big topic things to get a feel for other’s experiences. But I must agree with some of the others. This is one of the most depressing forums to come get information that you yourself can utilize. As we all know the ENTIRE body is very precise in how it functions optimally. No one should ever expect to get a hysterectomy and act oblivious to its side effects. That is really juvenile . Sorry! We have to weigh the pros and cons for ANY decision we make in life and not preach to the world blaming someone else (I.e. docs, etc) if things don’t go according to the plan in our head. I too know plenty people who have had this surgery years ago and say they would do it again. So everyone is different and NO 2 people have the exact same functioning. All I’m saying is really know your body yourself, get prepared then if you want this surgery to solve other problems, go for it if you come out with enough pros that fit YOU! No one should be scared away from a decision that could very well change their life for the better but chose not to.
And to keep it real, no doctor is going to run down a list that “could” happen to you. They don’t know how you will react to it until it’s done. Don’t ever count on that. I wish everyone the best no matter your decision!

TJ – It is my hope that women find this information BEFORE making a decision on treatment options for their gynecologic problems. Doctors are not informing women of these long-term sequelae. You are right that the body is “very precise in how it functions optimally.” Studies show that the uterus is needed for optimal health. Many of the after effects happen in the long-term. Far too many hysterectomies are being done unnecessarily (70% by ACOG standards). Educating women is key in reversing this long existing over-treatment.

Thank you so much for researching and writing this article. The information you have presented is crucial for all women considering a hyserectomy, whether a full or partial one.

I had a partial hysterectomy (laproscopic; kept cervix and ovaries), at age 46…six months after my beautiful son was born. He is my third child and he has an 18 year old brother and 16 year old sister.

A year after my daughter was born (aprox. 15 years ago), I got a bladder sling due to horribe frequency and incontence issues. I had zero complicaions from the sling and it improved the quality of my life immnesely. It is still working to date, though I want to mention this as I am wondering if the sling has anything to do with the complicatons I have had immediately and ongoing post op. These issues have become alarrmngly worse lately and I spend a good part of my day dealing with them.

The first thing that became a problem post-op was chronic constipation. No matter what I do, I am always constipated and so much so that I always have a build up of and pass a huge amount of mucus (sometimes just mucus). This has affected my entire gastrointestinal tract of course and I have intrmittent issues with enough gas to float a blimp, nausea, heartburn, etc. Over the last two years, I have definately noticed my intestines shifting down and I may have a rectal prolapse as a result. It isnt bad enough yet that I want to consider surgery for it at this time, but I can unfortunately see it going in that direction.

My figure has shifted also and I now have the poochy pot belly you describe. I am slender othwise. My daughter even commented recently on my shape and suggested a tummy tuck so I would look more proportionate! I never thought I would consider any kind of plastic surgery for myself unless it was medically necessary. This may qualify as my lower back aches nearly every day from my altered and off kiilter frame, which is now un naturally front heavy.

Most of the time I forget that I had a hysterectomy and oddly don’t think to consider it as the cause of all of these changes. This may be because I was never told about ANY possible adverse short or long term complications from the surgery, especially long term anatomical changes. Nor was I offered any other choice than the surgery or an unwieldly and painfully uncomfortable pessary for my mild uterine prolapse. Looking back I remember my OB matter of factly telling me that surgery was really my only option and cheerfully started to schedue the procedure right then and there during the initial exam.

I have been doing my own research lately for these issues that concurrs with the information in your article. I have to admit I now wonder how much my hysterectomy was really necessary for me or just an opportunity for that OB to preform an expensive surgery at my lifetime’s physical and emotional expense.

I would really appreciate your comments on what may be going on with me and would also be grateful to know if anyone else has experienced similar symptoms and what actions were taken and what outcomes have occurred.

I am sorry you are suffering these after effects and that your surgeon offered you no other options and rushed you into surgery. It seems a common strategy for them to just go ahead and schedule the surgery and we, trusting our doctors, comply. If other options are offered or questioned by us, we are often told erroneously why they won’t work and that hysterectomy is the best option. Many of us have had a long-term relationship with our ob/gyns, having seen us through many years of annual exams, pregnancies and childbirth so we trust(ed) them. It doesn’t help matters that the insurance companies don’t seem to care that this surgery is so overused. I could not even get my insurance company, Cigna, to divulge what my doctor submitted to get my surgery authorized.

Many women complain of bladder and bowel dysfunction since those organs are displaced to some degree and the pelvic floor is weakened. Adhesions can further hamper organ function. And since you had previous symptoms of prolapse, hysterectomy increases your risk for another prolapse.

Have you tried using some sort of “laxative” when the constipation is particularly bad? Magnesium has a laxative effect. I take a calcium/magnesium supplement before bedtime when my bowels are sluggish. If I take it on a regular basis, my bowels are too loose but my surgery triggered severe diarrhea and I have had more of a problem with loose bowels than constipation ever since. Thankfully, my bladder isn’t too “cranky.” There are times when it does not empty properly especially after having caffeine.

You did not mention having any symptoms of ovarian failure or even natural menopause. The reason I mention this is that loss of estrogen to the urogenital tissues can cause bladder issues. Some women find that vaginal estrogen helps. So if you have vaginal dryness, some vaginal estrogen may be worth a try for both that as well as your bladder.

I hear you on the tummy tuck! I never needed nor thought about any such thing. I had a very flat abdomen…bikini worthy body at age 49. I am still thin but the “fat” poochy pot belly is disgusting! I personally doubt I will ever have a tummy tuck because it is pretty risky and the recovery is quite brutal from what I have read. But it will not fix the shortened midsection (rib cage sitting on my hip bones) so I will still have the mis-proportioned body. Plus it could not restore my previously flat abs because a lot of the tissue is not fat per se but compressed tissue if that makes sense. The descent of your rib cage onto your hip bones is more likely the cause of your back pain. I find that sitting or standing for too long can exacerbate it. Strengthening your core can help.

Post back and let us know if you find some remedies for your issues. Hopefully, you will!

Why would the uterus be “required for optimal health”? I recently had a full hysterectomy and apparently it was a good thing I did. The proctologist reported finding cancerous activity which had not been discovered before. How can leaving that in your body be beneficial? So, what exactly does the uterus provide in “life long functions”? I am well past the age of reproduction which is the main function of the uterus, ovaries and falopian tubes, at least that’s what I learned through the years. Perhaps you can enlighten me on it’s other uses. I had to have a very painful gall bladder removed also. Should I have left it too? Every woman’s body is different in it’s responses to necessary surgeries. I don’t feel your opinions are very encouraging to those women who have to have these body parts removed for health and survival reasons.

Mary – There is absolutely no doubt that cancer of the uterus warrants a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). Unfortunately, far too many women are misled about their diagnosis or condition causing the bulk of hysterectomies to be unwarranted / unnecessary. I have connected with many women whose gynecologists used cancer scare tactics to get them to consent to having a hysterectomy and/or oophorectomy (ovary removal) only to discover after surgery that they did NOT have cancer. Less than 10% of hysterectomies are truly necessary and only a subset of those are for cancer.

Unfortunately, your understanding that the uterus, ovaries, and tubes are only needed for reproduction is inaccurate. Studies show that the ovaries of women with all their parts produce hormones their whole lives and protect them from many age-related diseases such as heart disease, osteoporosis, dementia, Parkinson’s, lung cancer, diabetes, etc. A good explanation of the ovaries’ functions and problems caused by their removal can be found here – http://www.overy.org/ – with a comprehensive list of studies here – http://www.gynreform.com/citations.html.

The fact that the ovaries are active our whole lives explains why some women have post-menopausal bleeding. Most cases of post-meno bleeding are not cancer or even pre-cancer (endometrial hyperplasia) but merely some sporadic ovarian activity especially in women who went through menopause in the last 5 years or so. However, any post-menopausal bleeding should be investigated just to be sure. If hyperplasia is found via an endometrial biopsy or D&C procedure then hormonal medication is the first-line treatment since it oftentimes cures it, no hysterectomy needed. I assume you meant to say a “pathologist” not “proctologist” found “cancerous activity.”

You are right that it is difficult to read about the consequences of hysterectomy but that does not make them my opinion. These are anatomical facts.

It would take a bit of writing here to explain the many non-reproductive / lifelong functions of the uterus (and ovaries). So I will just point you to all my articles so you can understand the importance of these female sex organs. You can find all my articles here – http://www.hormonesmatter.com/author/ws/.

Just as men need their testicles and prostates for optimal health, women need their sex organs too. I hope this helps clarify!

Yes I agree, I stumbled upon the site searching for reassurance. I’m 38 years old, a marathon runner and have just had tubes removed and uterus ablated (I think that’s what’s it’s called) due to pain and spotting, my uterus I was told didn’t look normal and I am currently awaiting pathology results. I have been informed that I may require a hysterectomy. I have no children, something I thought I could deal with but am now struggling with. Will I be able to continue running? Am I going to put in weight? Become incontinent? I’m scared more than ever now and hoping my result is benign as if I have cancer and a hysterectomy takes away from me what I deeply enjoy, I honestly think I would rather die.

Bonnie, I am sorry for your troubles. Since at least 90% of hysterectomies are unnecessary, it is extremely common for women to be told they need a hysterectomy when they don’t. Why were your tubes removed? Are you saying your uterus did not look normal at the time of the ablation? Is that when they obtained tissue for biopsy? It would be a good idea to get a copy of the pathology report when it becomes available along with related medical records. You can then do your research on whatever “condition” you are told you have in order to make an educated decision. Unfortunately, women cannot even count on second opinions since so many gynecologists recommend hysterectomy unnecessarily.

Weight gain and bladder problems (including incontinence) are fairly common complaints after hysterectomy. And the list is much longer than that. You can read all my articles about hysterectomy here – http://www.hormonesmatter.com/author/ws/.

Angela – Thank you for commenting. Women’s dishonesty is one of the BIGGEST roadblocks to ending this harm / abuse of women. The biggest hysterectomy “support” forum treats hysterectomy as a sort of “sister”hood / sorority and women who are too negative are banned. Other roadblocks are the fact that insurance companies cater to the medical industry by authorizing these surgeries that are seldom necessary. And our government appears to be beholden to the medical industry since they have done nothing to stop it. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) spend a LOT of money lobbying Congress. We need to write our legislators to end this madness.

This website – http://www.overy.org/ – addresses some of the ways you can take action on the issue of ovary removal. But we also need to end the overuse of hysterectomy since it also causes so much harm.

It’s frustrating. I was going to sign up at one of the “sororities” but I realized it would be a waste of time. There’s enough info here and elsewhere. Women who want to know the truth will find it.

I’ve told two girlfriends not to have the procedure and why. The first last I heard was seeking an attorney for the injuries and pain she now suffers. It was difficult to have much sympathy when she refused to believe me. I never brought up the fact that I had warned her and she never mentiononed it either.

The second just this week. From her response, I doubt if she will listen either. Her uterus is fine. The doctor wants to remove it as a precaution since she had early stage ‘breast cancer’ (the kind that usually doesn’t develop into anything life threatening yet women are advised to have their breasts removed and undergo chemo for which doctors receive commissions from pharma on every treatment – another scam!).

I saw my mother destroyed by a hysterectomy at 38. This has been going on for decades and the denial has to stop. Women don’t even have to tell me they’ve had one. I can see it – in their faces, their hair, their figures, their lack of vitality…One day the doctors who perform hysterectomies will be showered with the same scorn as those who performed lobotomies.

Angela – I find it odd that so many women ignore the warnings from women who have already had the surgery. Some even post on forums asking women to refrain from responding if their experience is/was negative. Granted, it’s pretty much human nature to think “that won’t happen to me” and to trust our doctors but when we share all the awful after effects, you’d think it would make a difference.

I too can usually tell which women have had hysterectomies by their figures, hair, skin, muscle tone, and demeanor. There are times I’d love to strike up a conversation but you can’t ask someone “did you have a hysterectomy?”!! Although there are 20+ million of us, it is a very lonely feeling because no one wants to talk about it. That says something in and of itself!

And by not allowing the negative – so that castrated women can pretend there’s nothing wrong with them – all it does is create more victims. There is NO woman that isn’t negatively impacted by a hysterectomy. We’re our own worst enemy sometimes.

Unless it’s life or death and there’s no alternative it should not be done. Doctors don’t chop off arms as a ‘precaution’ or if there is any alternative treatment.

If a man’s penis is severed, men crawl out of the woodwork to come help. It makes international news!

But a woman’s uterus or ovaries? ‘Oh! The doctor yanking out my sex organs was the BEST thing that ever happened to me! I feel great! You should do it too!’

I saw with my own eyes what it did to my mother. But it was never discussed. I wish I had said something – maybe she would have been able to deal with it better.

I had a full hysterectomy six weeks ago tomorrow, and it was the best thing I ever did! Inside I had four tumors inside my malformed uterus, my ovaries were absolutely covered in large, painful cysts, I had a uterine AVM, all caused by a miscarriage earlier in the year. I’m 44 and had a tubal ligation (tubes cut and cauterized) 11 years ago. I also dealt with polycystic ovarian syndrome and severe endometriosis my entire adult life.

I’m stiff now, no bathroom issues, no pain, (not even while I was in hospital!) but I’d like to find ways to overcome this stiffness. It doesn’t hurt, but all my joints feel like they need a bit of grease :/

I’ll be cleared to exercise tomorrow, and I’ll be looking into yoga and core strengthening. I was on full bed rest for a total of four months since February 2015. My illness caused me to lose 30% of my muscle mass, and almost half my hair.

Barracuda – I am sorry for all the gynecologic problems you had as well as the miscarriage. I hope the surgery ends up benefiting you in the long run. Unfortunately, many of the side / after effects of hysterectomy as well as oophorectomy happen in the longer term (years later) but we are not given all the facts prior to our surgeries. I did not lose any hair or muscle mass until after my TAH/BSO and then I lost a lot of both within months post-op. PCOS itself can cause scalp hair loss (and excess facial and body hair) but since this is a metabolic syndrome, removal of the ovaries does not cure PCOS. Granted, the cystic ovaries are gone but the insulin resistance and other associated symptoms remain. Hopefully, you will get some relief from the pain of endometriosis. Did an endo specialist excise all the endo in your pelvis?

All the endo was removed, thankfully! This was the fourth time I’ve had cautery, and hopefully the last.

It’s been a few months since surgery, and I’m noticing some differences. My hair is still growing back (the hair loss was caused but the miscarriage), I’m having hot swings, crying jags, my nails are peeling, my ears are constantly ringing, for weeks now! And I’ve gotten fatter, around my midsection and face, my weight hasn’t changed.

My hips always ache. My pelvis shifted forward because of the round ligament removal, my gait and stance changed, so that’s gonna take some getting used to. I feel like I walk like an asshole now. That’s what I constantly refer to it as, sorry :/ I can’t take long strides anymore, and letting my knees cross is painful. I try not to do that.

And man, can I slouch! That rib to hip thing is real. If I was a dude, I’d never leave the house. I now try to sit as straight as possible, with my butt behind me, if that makes sense, and watch my posture. I plan on going to physio to help me adjust.

I consider each of my afflictions to be just inconveniences, but having them all together is sorta miserable.

I’m trying to make the best of it. I prefer this over what I went through last year. I’m still thankful it’s gone and over. It could be so much worse.

Barracuda, I am sorry you were not informed either! Many of your symptoms are indicative of the loss of ovarian hormones / “surgical menopause.” (I don’t like that term because naturally menopausal ovaries produce hormones a woman’s whole life so the afflictions caused by post ovary removal should not include the word “menopause.”)

It can take some time for the body’s stored up hormones to become depleted which is why your symptoms are worsening.

I’ve been researching in medical journals and online, as well as asking for professional and personal opinions on the subject. I’ve been coming up empty. There seems to be little to no research done on the subject! How can that be? It shouldn’t be labelled as mysterious, and just left at that.

I’m documenting my experience, creating a timeline record of symptoms, maybe it can help somebody someday.

I’m glad my organs are gone, truly, but the symptoms don’t let you have a good time.

Anatomical, skeletal changes, nobody ever mentions those when talking about hysterectomies. My mother and my sister both had them, and never once mentioned anything about the changes. I’m pretty sure I’ll mention this first, if the topic arises.

The skeletal changes can typically be observed in women who are years post-hysterectomy especially if they are not overweight. The Whole Woman website explains that the uterus is like the hub of a wheel with all the major ligaments attaching to it. The pelvis collapses when this hub is removed – https://wholewoman.com/newpages/hysterectomy.html. This FAQ page is also helpful in understanding these skeletal changes – https://wholewoman.com/newpages/faq.html#Q8.

Suzie, What is your problem? As for advice from people who have actual medical education is a joke! I am not writing about my hysterectomy. I am writing about your total lack of education remark. My husband was in the military for 34 years. I have seen countless doctors as you can never get the same doctor as they rotate. I have had health problems in the past like utis, stomach problems, severe allergies etc. I have been told it was lyme – negative, HIV – negative, all in my head – negative. etc. Overseas I had severe headaches. One doctor sent me to a shrink who told me it was because I was so happy to be going back to the states. I have been to the Mayo clinic – no help. Finally I found an allergist who found out it was candida. My immune system was down to 1 instead of normal 15 to 30. I am being treated and it took care of so many things. By the way the headaches were caused by birth control pills which was making my blood pressure go through the roof. The other doctors never bothered to take my blood pressure. Went off them headaches gone. These women have real problems and that is not bullshit. You need help Suzie. You could have written something nice instead you acted like you know it all. Do you have medical education? I suggest you need to talk over your real problems with a counselor as there is more here than meets the eye.

Please help, I had a LAVH, everything removed including the ovaries in August 2014, since then I have had severe lower back pain, I can’t walk more than 10 mins without pain, I never had pain before my operation. My back pain has some relief when I go to the loo. Anybody else suffered anything like this

I had a total hysterectomy may 2014 and my lower back hurts daily. I can walk a few steps and it’s worse. I thought it was from being shoved in my back by the nurse, when they were transferring me from one bed to another after surgery. I hope you get relief soon.

I’m considering the surgery bc I have large fibroids that cause me to look pregnant and sometimes swell causing
Pain and pressure. The fibroids are up to my ribcage and fill my abdominal cavity. It’s awful and I hate it. I know 3 women who have had the surgery and they are very happy they had it and relieved. One I saw about 2 weeks after her surgery and she looked 10 years younger! So much fatigue and stress lifted from her face. Another woman had surgery years ago and her posture and body look fine.

PL – I am sorry you are dealing with fibroids. You did not say how close you may be to menopause. They do typically shrink after menopause. The figure changes do not happen overnight and many women are good at disguising them with changes to their wardrobe such as loose fitting clothing or certain styles.

Have you pursued less drastic options that preserve the uterus and its non-reproductive functions such as myomectomy or Uterine Fibroid Embolization / Uterine Artery Embolization? UFE / UAE is done by radiologists not gynecologists so you may not have been offered this option.

WS thanks for the reply. I am 48 and so, close to menopause. I am also looking into the other options you mentioned.
As for the body changes after hysterectomy, my grandmother had the surgery at 44. In her 70s, she still had an exceptional looking body and good posture and having seen her unclad, there was no mistaking. She did, however, exercise daily and take care of herself.
My mother had the surgery about 10 years ago and has no complaints concerning it.

i had a hysterectomy in 2004. I had a large tumour on one of my ovaries and they could not be sure until after a biopsy on it after its removal by surgery whether it was cancerous or not. I was 50 at the time and scared of cancer so i thought best to remove uterous and ovaries as I no longer needed them. After surgery the results where tumour wasnt malignant but in time it may have become. I was never advised about the negat5ive

MY BIGGEST REGRET IN LIFE IS HAVING This TOTAL HYSTERECTOMY.

Without ovaries the body doesnt produce estrogen or testosterone so I have been having yearly estrogen and testosterone implants.

Ever since HYSTERECTOMY y whole personality has changed, gone from an outgoing lady to a hermit rarely interested in socialising and i have little energy and gone from 60kg to 70kg

I THOUGHT THAT WAS BAD ENOUGH. LAST 3 YEARS I HAVE HAD STRESS INCONTINENCE AND OCCASIONAL PROBLEMS TRYING TO P0O AS ITS HARD TO PUSH OUT DUE TO BOWELL PRESSING ON MY VAGINA. G

ynocologist told me a month ago that normally the uterus holds the bladder the vagina and the bowel in place as they are all connected. He said when uterus is removed the other organs often become unstable often swinging in the wind and after on average 6 years after hysterectomy women start having problems.

I am a week out of major surgery after having a bladder sling repair and an anterior and posteria vagina repair. IN THIS PROCEDURE A SLING Is inserted to support the bladder and the sling is attached to strong ligamonts either side of the pelvis to stabilize and support it and front and back of vagina has supports from it also atached to pelvis ligaments to keep in place and keep vagina away from the bowell and bladder. If I hadnt had a hysterectomy i wouldnt have needed this surgery as I was very fit and every thing was where it should have been. If I knew what I know now i would have just had the one ovary removed.

I too wound up with really large fast growing fibroids (5lbs removed)which resulted in me having blood clots in both femoral arteries because one fibroid was the size of a 7 mth fetus)and I too was told more likely than not you have cancer (only after I could convince the doctor the 30 lb weight gain and swelling was not normal and this was at UCLA). I had to spend the morning before surgery negotiating with the gyn/onc on what he would agree to leave in. The surgery was horrible 6 hours and they removed everything except ovaries and even removed my omentum. My recovery was horrible I couldn’t stand straight or sit up for 2 months, had a blocked bowel etc. etc. I have a 14 inch vertical scar (bye-bye bikinis)and now have a huge divot in my abdomen and look deformed and have chronic pain in my abdomen sometimes with stabbing pain and frequently feels like somebody is shooting hundreds of rubber bands at my abdomen, I cant even touch my abdomen or even the inner portion of my leg and its 6 mths later. I think the whole point we are all trying to express is that these gyns are so quick to just to yank everything out because “we don’t need it anymore” (which is not necessarily true given ART – I had not had a child yet but who knows with medicine nowadays but that has forever been taken from me now). Additionally, they don’t fully explain options nor explain how serious the surgery will be (thankfully they ordered blood for me as they knew the surgery would be really long – there was a team of about 10 in the operating room which scared me to death – how could some little ol’ fibroids be that big a deal and if they are that big a deal then why don’t the doctors treat the surgery like that. I was told I would be in the hospital 2-3 days – that was a joke I could not even stand for 5 days and I was in such pain I cried every time I had to get up or moved. The recovery and life after have been horrible – the pain, the weight gain etc. I didn’t even go for my follow up visit because I couldn’t bare the thought of anyone touching me especially in the area. In general I think most women who have this surgery are under informed by their doctor who treat it like is a nothing surgery but then again we live in a country that insurance only covers one day in the hospital for a mastectomy – my guess is if a man’s thing was cut off insurance would cover weeks of recovery.

Hi I had Ablation last May 2014. It was unsuccessful due of bad cramp last Four months on period for 7 days straight repeated until last three weeks I had surgery for hysterectomy and keep my ovaries plus removed gall bladder last 6 weeks.. I noticed that I had a hot flash without sweat last week Monday bedtime. My body drove me so crazy by hot flash for 4 hours so I decided to get a tub for cool water to break out of hot flash so successful and emotional so senators to cry easily then same thing last Monday bedtime.. I have been emotionally unstable crying for good reason from frustrating and stressing too. I feel better no more sorely on my Betty. Only left is in my vaginal and can feel it… Hurry up to heal it..Have u experience of it?

I had a hysterectomy almost 3 months ago. I hate what has happened to my body. My vagina is not even similar to what I remember. My breasts are so painful I don’t know how to aleviate it. Sex…misery. I feel so alone. No one I know has had this experience. I feel a needling pain in my lower abdomen/vagina. When I work on my feet I have to be aware of holding my muscles tight so I don’t have incontinence! My hysto was done vaginally, cervix and utterus only. Someone help me! I am only 42. I wish I had just lived with the cramping and bleeding.

Karen – I am sorry you are also suffering the after effects of hysterectomy. It is a travesty that about 40% of women eventually have this destructive surgery despite the vital lifelong functions of the female organs and the rarity of gynecologic cancers. Since it is fairly common for ovarian function to be disrupted or cease altogether, be watchful for that. Hormones can be helpful but I am not sure how much can be done for the anatomical and skeletal changes.

I am so glad I found your post, I thought I was searching in vain for answers, after my hysterectomy I experienced numerous changes, weight gain, ageing more rapidly, facial features and skin texture changed, my figure changed. I experienced emotional episodes, irrational behaviour. Had my surgery in 2010, compared to photos of me and my energy levels, sex live, I have aged about 10 years in a 5 year period. My mother also went for her hysterectomy during 2012, she experience similar side effects. Are there any remedy for this rapid ageing, frizzy hair and weight gain?

Annele – I am sorry you as well as your mom are suffering the common after effects of hysterectomy! Were your ovaries removed or have they failed (which is fairly common after hysterectomy)? That can certainly amplify the after effects. And if this is the case, hormone “replacement” (although not a true replacement for our organs) may help stabilize the situation. It is a disgrace that so many women lose their organs unnecessarily and are left with worse health problems and a lesser quality of life than what led them to having the surgery in the first place. So few of these surgeries are truly necessary (only about 2% are done for cancer).

Cheryl – I am curious what prompted you to search for this article and how long it has been since your hysterectomy. These changes are gradual and do not happen immediately.

It is unfortunate that your surgeon did not use conservative treatments allowing you to keep your uterus and its many non-reproductive functions. When chronic pain and dysfunctional bleeding are stopped, women obviously feel relief. But unfortunately, for many women, the relief is replaced by regret and despair as a whole new set of problems present themselves.

I’m not disfigured, prolapsed or any other bs this article claims. My sex life is amazing now. Best choice ever! Goodbye 28 tumours! See ya horrible periods! No more doubling up pads! And… Omg!!! I still have a waistline as well. Don’t believe everything you read on the internet. This article isn’t factual information. It’s only someone’s opinion.

Mary – I am glad to hear you have not had one of the biggest disappointments of hysterectomy – lack of libido and sexual response / orgasm. Most women lose sensation to their genitalia, vagina, and breasts due to severed nerves and blood vessels. And for many women the uterus and cervix are big factors in orgasm. They don’t realize how much they play a role until they are gone. Loss of ovaries makes matters worse. These are our sex organs after all. I am curious what prompted you to go searching for hysterectomy information since you say that your experience has been positive.

I’m a freelance reporter investigating the connection between hysterectomy and back pain—a topic that has very little research behind it. Do you have any medical contacts who grasp the implications of this kind of surgery and chronic pain and back trouble who would be willing to be interviewed?

Hi Cate – I do not know of any medical professionals who grasp the implications of hysterectomy on back pain. However, I suspect that many do not grasp the connection or would not be willing to admit it. However, you would think all doctors should know since they all had to study anatomy. But especially, it would seem that orthopedists, neurosurgeons, chiropractors, and even physical therapists would see it in their practices quite frequently especially since about 40% of women have had a hysterectomy by age 60. The non-profit HERS Foundation – http://www.hersfoundation.com/ – may be able to direct you to someone. All the aftereffects of hysterectomy need to be exposed in mainstream media as women are not being given the facts and have to live with the lifelong damage. Thank you for your interest in this subject.

I had a vaginal hyst in august. I’m now 6 weeks p/o. I had a cuff infection and uti that resolved. I started lacing lower lumbar spiny pain last week. One or two vertebrae only. Severe pain with aitting, bending, standing. Otherwise I feel great!

Jen,
I am sorry to hear of your diagnosis. You may fall into the 2% of hysterectomies that are warranted due to a cancer diagnosis. I do not know much about cervical cancer such as diagnostic accuracy (false positives / false negatives). Keep in mind that pathologists have different experience levels so sometimes a second pathology opinion is worthwhile. Best of luck to you in getting the right treatment!

I personally was misled about my condition and discovered some inconsistencies and lies in my medical records after my hysterectomy. Getting copies of tests including biopsies and doctors’ notes can be extremely helpful. We as patients have to take charge to be sure we get the proper care.

I have been diagnosed with stage one cervical cancer, squamous carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Both medical opinions I received recommended a hysterectomy. My ovaries will remain intact. I am a 31 yr old mother of 3. After reading your article and exploring HERS, I am extremely fearful to go through with the surgery in two weeks. I want to make the right choice.

I am not a physician, but I suspect this may be an instance where the hysterectomy is a valid option. Maintaining your ovaries is critical and it seems your doctors are willing to do that. If you choose this procedure, make sure the surgeons do not use a morcellator (http://www.hormonesmatter.com/morcellation-foolhardy-technique/). It is common with hysterectomy and it will spread cancer cells.
Good luck with this decision.

to the lady afraid of having surgery as she has cervical cancer I say don’t be afraid . You have three children to live for . My mother died young of cervical cancer . It is worse than any outcomes of having a hysterectomy . No one wants that . Of course they don’t . But without Cancer you will live ! Also the operation and how you will feel after is not as bad as you might fear .
Live for your children ! Beat cancer !

I am 28 recently had a hysterectomy had multiple complications but I still don’t regret it just wish I would have had a done by another dr and another way. I have suffered for years with cervical prolapse recurring cysts a fibroid I tried having implants removed my uterus and right ovary became enlarged. For me even with the complications I would still have it again just with a different dr and a different way. I was constantly bleeding you shouldn’t scare women or make them question their decision.

Britney – I am sorry your problems led to a hysterectomy. This article is only meant to inform women. My hope is that many more women find it prior to surgery versus after so that they can make an informed decision. Unfortunately, women are rarely informed about the lifelong functions of the uterus and ovaries. Although you did not share the details of your complications, I hope you are able to get the necessary treatments for relief and resolution.

For those who are angry and distressed at reading this article – I understand as that was my same reaction when I discovered these anatomical facts. But it does not make sense to shoot / attack the messenger. You need to be angry with your surgeon for failing to inform you of these facts / adverse effects as well as question what other adverse effects were not communicated to you.

Every woman deserves to know the adverse effects of hysterectomy with and without ovary removal before she signs a consent form. Silence and denial perpetuate the gross overuse of these damaging surgeries.

Thank you for this info. The more you know the better informed you will be! A hysterectomy was recommended to me to treat large fibroids. I was told that the large uterus may negatively impact my kidney function. Two previous gynecologist did push a hysterectomy; the last one did and recommended a gynecologic oncologist. No finding of cancer-it was suggested because of the large size. I continue to research because the ob-gyns didn’t spend a lot of time discussing outcomes with me.

Correction: the 2 prior gynecologist did not RECOMMEND a hysterectomy. The latter ARNP and gynecologist did. I have been monitoring my uterus for the past three years waiting for menopause to kick in so the fibroids would stop growing. I have explored other options. No doctors favor individual fibroid removal.

Miriam – It is encouraging that the first 2 gynecologists did not recommend hysterectomy. So did they recommend “watchful waiting” since no doctor recommended removal of the fibroids (myomectomy)? Or did they recommend some other type of procedure?

I wish someone would have recommended the ex-ablate process where I believe ultrasounds are used to apply heat to shrink the fibroids. No one stated the your uterus had to be under 8 months pregnancy-size. I would have loved to have that option.